Lagos Govt Saves N2.4bn From Stoppage Of Pilgrims Sponsorship
By Oladipupo Mojeed
The Lagos state government has disclosed that it has saved N2.4 billion with the stoppage of annual sponsorship of pilgrims to Jerusalem and Mecca.
The 2016 pilgrimages conducted by the state were adjudged the best in the country.
According to the Commissioner of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Dr Abdulhakeem Abdullateef, the savings were ploughed back to finance infrastructural projects and other developmental programmes in the state.
Peaceful co-existence among religious groups
He applauded the peaceful co-existence and harmonious relationship among the religious groups and adherents in the state.
He said the ministry planned to hold a special parley and thanksgiving services for religious bodies as part of activities to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the state this month.
While noting that plans are afoot to decentralise the activities of the Nigeria Inter-religious Council (NIREC) to the 20 local government areas and 37 local councils and development areas (LCDA) to further enhance interaction and religious tolerance at the grassroots.
