Lagos State Governor Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Monday unveiled a contributory scheme for Hajj and Jerusalem pilgrimage as part of his administration policy to ensure that the residents are able to participate in the holy pilgrimage irrespective of the financial status and class.
Speaking after the launch of the contributory scheme also known as “Pay Small Small Scheme”, Ambode said with the scheme petty traders and other low income earners will be able to fulfill their religious obligations without much ado.
The Governor described the scheme as one of his administration strategies to create an enabling environment for every resident to feel the impact of the government, saying other plans are afoot to make life better for the citizen irrespective of their tribe, religion and other differences.
Ambode represented at the ceremony by the state Commissioner for Home Affairs, Dr AbdulHakeem AbdulLateef said, “It is a contributory scheme for all pilgrimages. Whether it for Jerusalem or Mecca.
The all inclusive administration of Governor Ambode is meant to carry along even the less privileged in the society to ensure that even with N50,000, you can begin to pay for your pilgrimage to Mecca, Medina, Rome and Jerusalem. “We have partnered with Micro Finance firm that will allow people to choose either three, two years or one contributory scheme for the pilgrimage depending on the ability of such a person. In fact, there is a package of N1,500 daily contribution scheme for the pilgrimage. The government wants to ensure that people are carried along and they are able to discharge their religious duties without stress.
So, to the ordinary trader, it is avenue to fulfill their obligations. One way of alleviating poverty is to carried the people along and assure them of place in the heart of government.” The Governor who also honoured the Managing Director of the Medview Airline Mr. Muneer Bankole for partnering with the state government in the airlifting of the pilgrims in the state, reiterated his commitment to make like easier for ever resident in the state.
Also speaking at the launch, Managing Director Medview, Mr. Muneer Bankole lauded the government for the initiative.
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Labels: Akinwunmi Ambode, Commissioner for Home Affairs, Dr. Abdulhakeem Abdulafees, Mr. Muneer Bankole