The Association of Hajj Media Support Professionals (AHMSP) has advocated unhindered support and harmonious relationships among stakeholders in Hajj industry in the interest of Nigerian pilgrims.

AHMSP, a non-profit interest group of media professionals in Nigeria, urged relevant and key players in the industry to support the preparation and tireless efforts of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to guarantee seamless pilgrimage this year.

The Professionals who monitor and report Hajj activities concerning Nigerian pilgrims, are worried about the flood of negative thoughts and sponsored media articles around the Hajj regulator of recent, even as activities for 2025 Hajj are gathering momentum.

In a statement signed by Ibrahim Abubakar Nagarta, National Coordinator, AHMSP believed that, at a peak period when upbeat swing for 2025 Hajj speaks volume, throwing a spanner in the wheel of progress, for whatever motives, should be discouraged by all.

Instead, AHMSP urged stakeholders to consider the significance of Hajj exercise as a sacred call to serve Almighty Allah, above other mundane and peculiar interests, adding that derailing sensitive activities at this material time earns no one any meaningful gain.

AHMSP cited the tremendous achievements recorded so far ahead of airlift of pilgrims commencement, insisting that NAHCON, under the tutelage of Professor Abdullahi Usman Saleh, deserves commendation from the expanded stakeholders.

The group called on interested parties to refrain from constituting any act capable of frustrating NAHCON’s preparation to transport over 52,000 Nigerians to Saudi Arabia for the spiritual exercise .

” It is no longer strange that Hajj exercise and activities around the Nigerian Hajj house are attracting a wide range of media outreach. In other words, the loud ovation symbolizes the significance of hajj in Nigerian context.

“AHMSP has monitored activities of NAHCON and preparation for hajj 2025 in the last month and came to the realization of tremendous achievements recorded so far by the commission under the leadership of Professor Abdullahi Usman Saleh.

” We have seen how the present NAHCON board disbursed refunds from Saudi Arabia, monies for poor and non-rendered service to Nigerian pilgrims in previous hajj. Professor Saleh, instructed for prompt and immediate disbursement of the funds to all affected 2023 pilgrims. This act signified utmost transparency and fear of Allah.

” AHMSP also took cognisance of Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman’s diligence in negotiating a downward review of the cost of services and eventually securing discounts on accommodation, transportation, feeding and other services at Masha’ir. This development led to drastic drop in the overall Hajj fare for 2025 against the expectations of higher fare courtesy of the uncertainty of forex rate in the country.

” Against all odds, the Commission also took responsibility and secured accommodations for private tours ahead of the deadline, even when the operators could not raise funds for the service.

Ayodele Fayose, a former governor of Ekiti State on Friday said he would work against the two-time presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar if he picks the party’s ticket for the third time.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today, the former governor warned Atiku to stay away from contesting the 2027 presidential election, especially under the umbrella of the PDP.Politics-themed apparel

His words, “I’m telling you that if Atiku comes again, I will work against him. It’s time to learn our lessons.

“Nigeria’s want to hear and make a decision and have an understanding,” he said.

According to Fayose, a Southerner would not succeed President Bola Tinubu in the next presidential poll.

“People can say what they like, but after Asiwaju’s tenure, let a Southerner come out, I will also come out and say a Southerner can’t be president of Nigeria,” the former governor added.

Former Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola, urged Nigerian youths to resist the influence of individuals promoting division and exclusion. Speaking at the 2025 Lagos State Leadership Summit, themed “Transformative Leadership: Development-Responsive, Adaptive and Inclusive Models,” Fashola emphasized the importance of shared values in countering the growing tide of identity politics.

Delivering a keynote address titled “The Inclusion Imperative: Why No One Wins When Leadership Leaves People Behind,” Fashola highlighted the provisions within the 1999 Nigerian Constitution that promote national cohesion and inclusiveness. He stressed the need for leaders across all levels to collaborate in bringing these constitutional ideals to life, ensuring that no one is left behind due to ethnic, religious, or political differences[

Fashola’s message resonated deeply with the audience, as he underscored the role of authentic leadership in fostering unity and inclusivity. He called on Nigerian youths to reject divisive narratives and focus on building a future anchored on collective values and inclusive governance[

The summit, organized by the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy, also featured Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu as the chief host. Sanwo-Olu reiterated his administration’s commitment to good governance and transformative leadership. He encouraged citizens to pursue education and excellence, emphasizing the importance of resilience and innovation in leadership

The event drew attention to the pressing need for leaders who prioritize inclusion and unity, with speakers advocating for a collaborative approach to addressing the challenges posed by identity politics. The summit served as a platform for fostering dialogue and inspiring action towards building a stronger, more united Nigeria