29/05/2026
Ayeye Ileya Festival Unites Families, Faiths And Communities In Badagry
Muslims in Badagry, Lagos State, gathered on Thursday, May 28, 2026 for the 23rd edition of the Ayeye Ileya celebration. The annual Eid al-Adha event brought together Islamic households, families and visitors in a display of unity, culture and faith.
The celebration, held in front of the Badagry City Hall on the second day of Eid al-Adha, featured prayers, spiritual reflections and performances by Islamic music stars including Saoti Arewa and Badagry-born Monsurat Ajelero.
“This is a celebration period, this is how we mark it every year, we call it Ayeye Ileya, this is the 23rd edition,” said Sheikh Uwais Akewusola, Chief Imam of Badagry.
“You will notice that there are different households here today. The benefits of the program to the community are enormous both economically and politically. This program brings people from far and near together, it increases commerce, you can see people selling their goods,” he added.
Akewusola said the gathering also strengthened family ties as people living outside Badagry returned home to celebrate Eid with loved ones.
“Politically when government provides an enabling environment for citizens to thrive, we are expected to behave within the ambit of the law and not cause issues,” he said.
Padonu Rasheed, secretary of the Ayeye Ileya 2026 committee, said the celebration reflected Islamic teachings of humanity and unity.
“Islam preaches humanity and unity. I think the essence of this celebration is tied to the history of Prophet Ibrahim. People who are far away come down and we are able to be together,” he said.
“This program promotes unity, peace and understanding. My message to all Muslim communities in Badagry is that we should come together in one mind to celebrate Allah,” he added.
The event was hosted by the Lagos State Commissioner for Home Affairs, Olanrewaju Layode, and brought together more than 40 Islamic households in the community.
