How family, friends, neighbours receive Hon. Maryam Owolabi-Bada with arousing welcome from Hajj

It was a heartwarming and emotional moment on Sunday as family, friends, political associates, and neighbours trooped out in large numbers to welcome Hon. Maryam Owolabi-Bada back to Lagos following her successful completion of the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Hon. Maryam Owolabi-Bada, who serves as the Senior Special Assistant on Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA) to the Executive Chairman of Somolu Local Government, Hon. AbdulHamed Salawu (popularly known as Dullar), was received with singing, drumming, and joyful celebrations at her residence.

The welcome reception, which took place in the heart of Somolu, had the atmosphere of a festive occasion as well-wishers dressed in colourful attires came out to express their joy and gratitude for her safe return from the holy journey. Youths, elderly women, political aides, and members of the community joined in the display of affection and solidarity.

Speaking during the welcome, Hon. Owolabi-Bada expressed heartfelt appreciation to Almighty Allah for granting her the opportunity to perform the sacred pilgrimage and return home safely. She also extended special thanks to her political mentor and benefactor, Hon. AbdulHamed Salawu ‘Dullar’, for his unwavering support and for finding her worthy of the rare privilege to serve in his administration.

“I feel truly blessed and humbled,” she said. “This Hajj journey has been spiritually enriching and transformative. I return with renewed strength and a greater sense of responsibility to continue serving the good people of Somolu, especially our women and vulnerable households.”

She further noted that the opportunity to embark on the holy pilgrimage was not just a personal journey, but also a reflection of the inclusive leadership and women-empowerment-driven governance style of the Dullar-led administration in Somolu.

The joyous reception saw Islamic group sing and dance while Islamic clerics offered prayers for her continued success in public service and for the progress of Somolu Local Government. Community leaders, women coordinators, and political stakeholders who were present described Hon. Owolabi-Bada as a devoted leader with compassion for grassroots development.

A resident of the area and a close friend, Mrs. Adeyinka Oluokun described the celebration as well-deserved. “Mama WAPA is not just a political appointee. She is one of us. Her humility and dedication to women’s upliftment make her a treasure in Somolu. We are proud to welcome her home.”

Another attendee, praised her commitment to community service. “Her return from Hajj is a spiritual elevation, and we are confident that she will use the lessons of Hajj to further deepen her contributions to local development.”

As she settled back into her official duties, Hon. Maryam Owolabi-Bada reaffirmed her commitment to advocating for women’s welfare and expanding poverty alleviation initiatives across Somolu.

The event ended with light refreshments, photo sessions, and chants of “Alhaja WAPA, welcome back!” echoing across the streets.