Group Urges Enhanced Security in Osun as Eid-el-Kabir and Ifa Festival Coincide in Ile-Ife

 

The World Institute for Peace (WIP) has issued a urgent plea to the Osun State Police Command, calling for heightened security measures in Ile-Ife as the annual Ifa Festival and Eid-el-Kabir celebrations are set to remarkably coincide on June 6, 2025. The group warns of potential religious tension, citing past clashes between traditional worshippers and Muslims during similar events.

In an open letter addressed to Commissioner of Police Mohammed Abba, WIP's Executive Director, Lamina Omotoyosi, expressed significant concern over the overlapping dates of the two major festivals. He highlighted the close proximity of the Ifa Temple to the Ile-Ife Central Mosque, where thousands of Muslims are expected to gather for Jumaat prayers, as a potential flashpoint for unrest.

The letter, titled “Urgent call for enhanced security measures during upcoming religious festivals in Ile-Ife: A stitch in time saves nine,” was also copied to key stakeholders including Governor Ademola Adeleke, the Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Police Force, Adejobi Olumuyiwa, the Director of the Department of State Services, Osun State Command, the Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and the Amotekun Corps.

Omotoyosi emphasized the need for urgent collaboration among all security agencies and religious leaders to proactively prevent any potential escalation of tensions. The WIP proposed several proactive measures, including joint security efforts, stakeholder meetings, and robust engagement with community leaders.

Specifically, Omotoyosi recommended convening a crucial dialogue involving the Chief Imam of Ile-Ife, the Grand Chief Imam of Osogbo, and leaders of the traditional worshippers. He also called for the active involvement of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi Ojaja II, in fostering peace and understanding during the festivities.

"Given the historical context of tensions between traditional worshippers and Muslims in the area, it is imperative to implement maximum security measures to ensure the safety and peace of all residents and participants during these significant events," the letter stated.

The WIP further urged security agencies to collaborate seamlessly with the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and other paramilitary organizations to develop and execute a comprehensive security plan.

Expressing hope for swift action, Omotoyosi concluded, "This letter serves as an open appeal for prompt action, reflecting our commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of our community." The call comes as Ile-Ife braces for a unique convergence of religious observances, with community leaders and security agencies now tasked with ensuring a peaceful coexistence.

Ooni of Ife Hailed for Monumental Step in Preserving Oduduwa Heritage

 

The International Council for Ifa Religion (ICIR) has lauded the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, for his profound dedication to safeguarding and promoting the rich cultural heritage of Oduduwa. This commendation follows the Ooni's significant donation of three acres of land for the establishment of the World Ifa Temple, a project poised to become the largest pilgrimage site for Yoruba traditional worshippers globally.

In a letter of appreciation, the President of the ICIR, Dr. Fayemi Fatunde Fakayode, expressed immense gratitude for what he described as a "good and historic gesture" from His Imperial Majesty. "On behalf of the Council of Araba and Oluwo, we thank His Imperial Majesty for this good and historic gesture," the letter read.

The donated land, strategically located near the Stadium Area, Route 7, Ile-Ife, is currently undergoing preparation for the ambitious construction. Dr. Fakayode highlighted the clear demonstration of the Ooni's commitment through this action, stating, "With this step, Ooni’s commitment to preserving and promoting Oduduwa’s cultural heritage and spirituality is obvious to all."

He further emphasized the transformative potential of the upcoming temple, affirming that it will serve as a pivotal center for Oduduwa's spirituality. "This project is going to be the largest World Ifa Temple across the world," Fakayode declared, underscoring the global significance of the initiative.

The establishment of the World Ifa Temple is expected to attract traditional worshippers and enthusiasts from across the globe, solidifying Ile-Ife's position as a spiritual Mecca for the Yoruba diaspora and fostering a deeper appreciation for indigenous African spiritual practices. The Ooni's continued efforts are seen as a vital step in ensuring the longevity and vibrancy of Oduduwa's legacy for generations to come.

Your Complete Guide to Relocating from Nigeria to the UK in 2025: Visas, Costs & Settlement Strategies

 

 

Why the UK Remains a Top Destination

 

For ambitious Nigerians, the UK offers world-class education, thriving job markets, and cultural diversity. Yet navigating the complex relocation process requires strategic planning. This updated 2025 guide demystifies every step—from visa selection to cost management—using the latest data and immigration policies. 

 

Visa Pathways: Choosing Your Immigration Route

A. Work Visas 

Skilled Worker Visa: Requires a job offer from a UK employer with a sponsor license. 

  Cost: £719 (3 years) or £1,420 (3 years); shortage occupations: £551–£1,084  

  Salary Threshold: £26,200+ annually or the "going rate" for your role 

Global Talent Visa: For leaders in academia, tech, or arts (no job offer needed). 

 Cost: £716  

Graduate Route: For recent UK graduates to work freely for 2 years (PhD: 3 years). 

Eligibility: Valid Tier 4 visa holder completing a UK degree in 2025  

 

B. Study Visas

Student Visa: £490 application fee + Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) of £470/year  

Financial Proof: Show tuition funds + £12,006–£15,600 annual living costs (London/outside)  

C. Family Visas 

Spouse/Partner Visa: £1,846 application fee 

Income Requirement: £29,000 joint income + £3,800 for first child  

 

Comparison of Major UK Visas for Nigerians (2025): 

| Visa Type| Cost (£) | Duration | Key Requirements | 

|---------------|--------------|--------------|-----------------------| 

| Skilled Worker | £719–£1,420 | Up to 5 yrs | Sponsor job offer, salary £26.2k | 

| Student | £490 | Course length | CAS letter, proof of funds | 

| Graduate Route | £822 | 2–3 yrs | UK degree completion | 

| Family | £1,846 | 2.5–5 yrs | Income threshold, relationship proof | 

 

II. Cost Breakdown: Budgeting for Your Relocation

A. Upfront Expenses 

Visa Fees: £127–£1,846 (depending on category)  

Health Surcharge (IHS): £470/year (students) or £624/year (other visas)  

Tuberculosis Test: $150 (ages 11+) at approved clinics like IOM or Q-Life  

English Test (IELTS): ₦104,000–₦116,000  

B. Travel & Setup Costs 

Flights: Lagos–London: £500–£800 (economy) 

Initial Accommodation: 1-month London rent: £1,031 (city center)  

Shipping Belongings: £1,200–£2,500 (sea freight) 

 

C. UK vs. Nigeria Living Costs (Monthly): 

| Expense| Nigeria| UK| Difference | 

|-------------|-------------|--------|----------------| 

| Rent (1-bed city) | £475 | £1,367 | +188% | 

| Utilities | £25.70 | £239.10 | +830% | 

| Groceries | £235 | £514 | +119% | 

| Transport Pass | £26.40 | £70 | +165% | 

| Average Salary (After Tax) | £105 | £2,373 | +2,160% |  

 

III. Settlement Strategies: Thriving in the UK 

A. Accommodation Hacks

University Halls: Cheapest option for students (£150–£300/month outside London)  

House-Sharing: Use Spareroom or OpenRent to find rooms 30–50% below market rates 

Location Savings: Consider Birmingham or Manchester—rents 40% lower than London  

 

B. Financial Management

Currency Transfers: Use Wise or similar for mid-market rates (saves 3–7% vs banks)  

- Part-Time Work: Students can earn £800/month (20 hrs/week at £10/hr)  

- Build Credit: Get a starter credit card (e.g., Aqua) to improve loan eligibility 

 

C. Cultural Integration 

"Networking unlocks 70% of UK jobs. Join LinkedIn groups like 'Nigerians in the UK' and attend industry meetups." — FasthireNG  

 

Community Hubs: Nigerian churches/mosques (e.g., RCCG, NASFAT) and cultural associations 

Weather Prep: Invest in thermal wear (Dec–Feb averages: 2°–7°C) 

 

IV. Job Market Navigation: Securing Employment

A. In-Demand Sectors for Nigerians (2025): 

1. Healthcare: NHS hires 40,000+ yearly; salaries: £28,000–£40,000  

2. Technology: Roles in AI/data analysis; average entry salary: £30,000  

3. Finance: Accounting/fintech jobs in London; starting pay: £30,000–£45,000  

B. Application Tips 

Tailor Your CV: Highlight transferable skills (project management, multilingual abilities) 

Leverage Universities: 89% of UK schools offer career fairs and placement support  

Post-Study Work: Use the Graduate Route to gain experience before employer sponsorship  

V. Step-by-Step Relocation Timeline 

1. 3–6 Months Before: Secure admission/job offer; take language tests  

2. 8–12 Weeks Before: Apply for visa; book TB test; arrange finances  

3. 4 Weeks Before: Confirm housing; open UK bank account (Monzo/Starling) 

4. Arrival Month: Register with GP; get biometric residence permit; obtain SIM (Giffgaff/EE) 

5. First 90 Days: Attend job fairs; build credit history; register for NI number 

 

Turning Ambition into Reality 

Relocating from Nigeria to the UK in 2025 demands meticulous planning but offers transformative rewards. By mastering visa pathways, budgeting for the 48.7% higher living costs , and leveraging post-study opportunities, you can transition smoothly. As immigration lawyer Agnes Tunde-Olowu notes:

"Applicants who submit error-free applications with documented funds are 5x more likely to secure visas on first attempt" . Start your journey today—your British future awaits. 

 

Did This Help? Share this guide with fellow dreamers! For visa coaching or CV reviews, explore these resources:   [UK Visas and Immigration](https://www.gov.uk/world/coming-to-the-uk-nigeria)    [AHZ Associates](https://ahzassociates.co.uk) (student support)   [FasthireNG Career Hub](https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/how-land-your-dream-job-uk-from-nigeria-2025-fasthireng-6snve)

Affordable Places to Live in Lagos, Nigeria (2025 Guide)

Lagos is one of Africa’s most vibrant cities — a bustling hub for business, creativity, and culture. But with its appeal comes a high cost of living in many parts of the city. If you're moving to Lagos or planning to relocate within the city and want to keep your expenses low, there are several affordable areas worth considering.

Here’s a practical guide to some of the cheaper places to live in Lagos without sacrificing too much on security, accessibility, or basic amenities.

1. Ikorodu

Why it’s affordable:
Ikorodu sits on the outskirts of Lagos and has seen rapid development over the past decade. Housing is significantly cheaper compared to central Lagos areas like Lekki or Victoria Island.

Pros:

• Relatively low rent
• Good road network in newer parts
• Presence of markets and local businesses

Cons:

• Traffic congestion, especially during rush hours
• Limited access to high-end infrastructure

Rent estimate: ₦150,000–₦400,000 annually for a one-bedroom apartment (as of 2025)

 

2. Abule Egba

Why it’s affordable:
Located along the Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway, Abule Egba has become a go-to for budget-conscious renters. The government’s flyover project has eased some of the former traffic chaos.

Pros:

• Access to several bus routes and the BRT system
• Active local economy with markets and small businesses
• Affordable food and daily expenses

Cons:

• Flooding in some areas during the rainy season
• Infrastructure varies block by block

Rent estimate: ₦200,000–₦500,000 annually for a self-contained or mini flat.

 

3. Agbado-Ijaiye

Why it’s affordable:
This area borders Ogun State and is ideal for people working in Lagos but looking for cheaper housing. It’s a peaceful suburban neighborhood with a mix of old and new developments.

Pros:

• Cheap rent and cost of living
• Calm environment
• Close to Sango and Iju, offering transport flexibility

Cons:

• Electricity supply can be inconsistent
• Commute to Lagos Island is long

Rent estimate: ₦150,000–₦400,000 annually

 

4. Mowe/Ibafo (Ogun Border Towns)

Why it’s affordable:
Technically located in Ogun State, Mowe and Ibafo are popular among Lagos workers due to their affordability and relatively short distance to Ikeja and Ojota.

Pros:

• Very low housing costs
• Quiet residential feel
• Easy access to Lagos-Ibadan Expressway

Cons:

• Heavy traffic into Lagos during peak hours
• Limited public services compared to mainland Lagos

Rent estimate: ₦100,000–₦350,000 annually

 

5. Egbeda/Alimosho

Why it’s affordable:
Alimosho is Lagos' largest local government area, and Egbeda is one of its most accessible towns. The area is dense but packed with affordable housing options.

Pros:

• Active commercial zones and nightlife
• Good transport links
• Many schools and churches/mosques

Cons:

• Overcrowding in some parts
• Water supply issues in older buildings

Rent estimate: ₦200,000–₦500,000 annually

6. Iyana Ipaja

Why it’s affordable:
A major transport hub, Iyana Ipaja connects several parts of Lagos. It’s noisy and fast-paced, but if you need affordability and access, it’s a strong candidate.

Pros:

• Easy access to public transport
• Thriving markets and low cost of daily living
• Affordable rents and room-sharing options

Cons:

• Frequent gridlock
• Environmental cleanliness can be an issue

Rent estimate: ₦150,000–₦450,000 annually

 

A Few Tips Before You Rent

• Inspect before paying: Photos and promises can be misleading. Visit the property in person if you can.
• Ask about security and water supply: Even affordable places should offer basic comfort.
• Budget for transportation: Some cheaper areas require longer commutes, which adds to your monthly costs.
• Use trusted agents or referrals: The property market in Lagos has its share of scams, so proceed with caution.

Living in Lagos on a budget is very possible, especially if you're willing to make a few trade-offs in terms of location and convenience. The key is balancing affordability with access to essential services and transport. With careful planning, these neighborhoods can offer a decent quality of life without draining your wallet.

Ogun: The Forge of Civilization and the Fires of War

 

 

Ogun stands as one of the most formidable and paradoxical deities in the Yoruba pantheon—a divine embodiment of creation and destruction, innovation and conflict, whose resonance extends from ancient West Africa to global diasporic traditions like Santería, Candomblé, and Vodou. Revered as the Orisha of Iron and War, Ogun’s influence permeates the material and spiritual realms, shaping civilizations and empowering humanity to master their world. 

 

The Cosmic Path-Cleaver: Origins and Mythology 

According to Yoruba cosmology, Ogun holds the primal title Osin Imole—"the first primordial Orisha to descend to Earth." As recount, he used his iron machete to slash through the dense primordial forest, creating pathways for other deities and humans to inhabit the earth. This act established his role as the ultimate trailblazer, transforming chaos into order. 

 

Ogun’s mythology is rich with tales of sacrifice and duality: 

 

The King’s Descent: After ruling as king of Ife, Ogun vanished into the earth at Ire-Ekiti (wo ile sun) following a tragic episode where he killed disrespectful subjects and himself in a fit of righteous fury. He pledged eternal aid to humanity from the spiritual realm.

The Stolen Sun: In a pivotal myth, Ogun rescued the sun from mischievous spirits, restoring light to the world—a metaphor for his role as a liberator against oppression.

Divine Relationships: His marriages to Oya (Orisha of storms) and Olure his ties to natural and societal forces. Yet both unions ended tragically, reflecting the volatility of his power. 

Domains of Power: Iron, War, and Civilization 

Ogun’s authority extends far beyond warfare. He is the architect of human progress, presiding over: 

Technology and Labor: As patron of blacksmiths, surgeons, barbers, and engineers, Ogun governs any craft involving iron. His tools—anvils, machetes, and hoes—symbolize humanity’s ability to shape destiny.

Justice and Truth: In Yoruba courts, devotees swear oaths on iron implements, invoking Ogun as the enforcer of integrity. 

Hunting and Agriculture: He provides hunters with skill and protects sacred natural sites, like the Iroko tree, which embodies his enduring strength. 

 

Table: Key Attributes of Ogun 

| Aspect         | Symbols/Manifestations                     | Cultural Significance                    | 

|---------------------|-----------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------| 

| Elements        | Iron, Earth, Fire                             | Mastery over transformation and industry      | 

| Colors          | Green, Black, Red; Blue (Bahia, Brazil)       | Fierceness (red), Mystery (black), Life (green) | 

| Sacred Numbers  | 3, 7                                          | Seven paths (Ògún méje) of manifestation    | 

| Syncretism      | Saint George (Brazil), Saint Peter (Cuba)     | Fusion of Yoruba and Catholic traditions      | 

| Offerings       | Palm wine, Roasted yam, Dogs, Roosters        | Sustenance aligning with his warrior essence | 

 

Rituals, Worship, and Global Resonance 

Ogun’s veneration is marked by intense physicality and communal rites: 

Sacrifices and Taboos: Dogs (representing loyalty) and male animals are ritually offered. Followers avoid red mangoes, crabs, and witnessing snake mating—acts believed to provoke his wrath. 

Festivals: The annual Ọlọ́jọ́ Festival in Nigeria reenacts his exile and return, featuring processions with iron tools, drumming, and dances. In Ondo, the festival fosters social unity across Muslim, Christian, and traditionalist lines.

 In Haitian Vodou, Ogou Feray merges Ogun’s warrior traits with political resistance. Brazilian Candomblé devotees offer feijoada (bean stew) to Ogum, syncretizing him with Saint George’s dragon-slaying imagery.

 

The Unyielding Symbol: Ogun in Modern Consciousness 

Beyond religion, Ogun embodies enduring cultural ideals: 

Resistance and Resilience: During the Black Atlantic experience, Ogun became a symbol against oppression. Civil rights activists invoked his spirit to "clear paths" of injustice. 

Technological Ethos: Contemporary thinkers link Ogun to cybernetics and innovation—framing him as a patron of engineers navigating the "digital forge" . 

Environmental Harmony: His myths emphasize balance; his defense of the Iroko tree reflects ecology’s sacredness.

 

Conclusion: The Double-Edged Sword of Progress 

Ogun’s legacy is a testament to humanity’s fraught relationship with power. He gifts civilization with technology and justice yet demands reverence to avert destruction. As the Yoruba maxim warns: 

"Ogun can make the knife that cuts the forest and the knife that cuts the hand." 

In a world grappling with wars and industrial ethics, Ogun’s essence—forging order from chaos, yet bound by moral limits—remains urgently relevant. He is not merely an Orisha of iron, but the very spirit of human ambition and its consequences.

Misconceptions

Ogun is not the Supreme being. He is a messenger, a divine energy or a minister of God, (Olodumare) in Yoruba spirituality. His powers and spiritual energy come from Olodumare, God.