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Hajj Ends in Heartfelt Scenes: Nigerian Pilgrims Overwhelmed with Joy and Sorrow at Departure
Nigerian pilgrims who participated in the 2025 Hajj are set to begin their return journey home, following Saudi Arabia’s official declaration of a successful and peaceful conclusion to this year’s pilgrimage.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
The Kingdom made the announcement on Monday, marking the end of the Islamic year 1446 Hajj rites, which saw over 1.67 million pilgrims from around the world, including thousands from Nigeria, complete the sacred rituals. The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) confirmed that return flights for Nigerian pilgrims would commence on June 9. While many pilgrims expressed profound gratitude and joy for the opportunity to fulfill the fifth pillar of Islam, the season was marked by the unfortunate deaths of seven Nigerian pilgrims, who reportedly passed away from health-related complications such as cardiac arrest and heart failure. The deceased hailed from Oyo, Abia, Edo, Plateau, and Kano states and were buried in the Kingdom according to Islamic rites. This year’s Hajj recorded fewer Nigerian fatalities compared to 2024, when at least 30 deaths were reported during the pilgrimage. Announcing the successful close of the season, the Deputy Emir of Makkah Region, Prince Saud bin Mishaal, praised Saudi Arabia’s leadership for delivering a smooth, incident-free pilgrimage with no major health, security, or service disruptions. According to official figures, 1,506,576 pilgrims came from outside Saudi Arabia, while 166,654 domestic pilgrims—including residents and citizens—also took part. The total number included 877,841 men and 795,389 women. Prince Mishaal lauded the efforts of King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, attributing the smooth execution of the pilgrimage to their leadership and the performance of various support agencies. He also praised the pilgrims for adhering to rules and regulations, calling their discipline a major contributor to the season’s success. Prince Mishaal concluded by stating that preparations for the 2026 Hajj would commence immediately, reaffirming Saudi Arabia’s enduring commitment to serving the holy sites and ensuring a seamless spiritual experience for pilgrims worldwide.
Renowned economist and banker, Mohammed Hayatu-Deen, has declared his intention to contest the presidential ticket of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of the 2027 general elections, pledging to address economic hardship, insecurity, and governance challenges in the country.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Speaking in an interview on Arise Television, Hayatu-Deen said Nigerians are facing rising living costs and worsening insecurity, stressing the need for urgent and effective leadership intervention.
He noted that food and fuel prices continue to increase, making daily survival increasingly difficult for many citizens.
According to him, the situation does not reflect the Nigeria citizens deserve, adding that it is time for a change in direction.
He criticised what he described as a growing disconnect between the government and the people, arguing that current policies have placed heavy pressure on households and businesses.
Hayatu-Deen said insecurity has also intensified, while public resources are not being properly managed to protect vulnerable citizens.
He pledged to present a credible alternative focused on stabilising the economy, improving security, and restoring public trust in governance.
He emphasised the need for experienced and steady leadership capable of rebuilding systems, creating jobs, and protecting lives and livelihoods.
Drawing from over four decades of experience in banking and economic management, he highlighted his involvement in financial reforms, investment mobilisation, and institutional restructuring.
He also urged members of the ADC to remain united as the party prepares for the 2027 elections, stressing that unity would be key to becoming a strong opposition force.
Hayatu-Deen, who previously served as Managing Director and Chairman of FSB International Bank and chaired the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, has also contributed to national economic policy discussions and advisory platforms.
He was awarded the national honour of the Order of the Niger (OON) in 2000 for his service to Nigeria.
With his declaration, he joins other prominent political figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Rotimi Amaechi, and Peter Obi, who have also indicated interest in the 2027 presidential race.
The leadership crisis within the Labour Party has escalated as Julius Abure rejected the recent ruling of the Court of Appeal and announced plans to challenge it at the Supreme Court of Nigeria.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
News reports that the Court of Appeal in Abuja dismissed Abure’s case and upheld an earlier judgment removing him as the party’s national chairman. The court also affirmed recognition of Nenadi Usman as the legitimate leader of the party.
The dispute traces back to a Federal High Court ruling, which relied on a Supreme Court decision that nullified the process that brought Abure into office. The courts maintained that his tenure had ended and directed the Independent National Electoral Commission to recognise Usman’s leadership.
However, Abure rejected the judgment, insisting that the 2024 party convention that produced him remains valid and supports his claim to leadership.
He has now instructed his legal team to approach the Supreme Court in a bid to overturn the Appeal Court’s decision.
Abure described the ruling as unacceptable to him and his supporters, arguing that it contradicted established legal principles and internal party autonomy.
He maintained that the Labour Party’s 27 March 2024 convention in Nnewi remains valid for four years, claiming the court failed to properly consider it in its decision.
He also faulted the Umuahia meeting that produced a caretaker committee, describing it as unconstitutional under the party’s rules, arguing that only the National Chairman and National Secretary have the authority to convene NEC meetings.
Abure reaffirmed that the judgment would be appealed, stating that his legal team has already been mobilised to take the matter to the Supreme Court for final determination.
What is the current Dollar to Naira exchange rate in the black market, also known as the parallel market (Aboki FX)?....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Below is the latest black market rate for the Dollar to Naira exchange on Tuesday, 21st April, 2026. At this rate, you can exchange your dollars for naira.
Dollar to Naira Black Market Rate Today
In the Lagos parallel market, Bureau De Change (BDC) operators reportedly sold the dollar at ₦1400 and bought it at ₦1393, according to market sources.
It is important to note that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) does not recognize the parallel (black) market and advises individuals seeking foreign exchange to carry out transactions through official banking channels.
Black Market Rate (USD to NGN)
- Selling Rate: ₦1400
- Buying Rate: ₦1393
CBN Official Rate (USD to NGN)
- Highest Rate: ₦1357
- Lowest Rate: ₦1345
Exchange rates may vary depending on location and dealers, as market prices are not fixed and can change frequently.
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