Lagos Government Sanctions 15 Money Lenders for Operational Violations

Introduces automated pilgrimage registration system

By Olasunkanmi Akoni

The Lagos State Government has imposed sanctions on at least 15 money‑lending firms that violated the state's approved operating guidelines.

Commissioner for Home Affairs Ibrahim Layode announced the sanctions during a 2026 Ministerial Press Briefing held at Alausa, Ikeja, which marked the seventh anniversary of Governor Babajide Sanwo‑Olu and Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat’s administration.

Layode said the sanctions were intended to enforce compliance with regulatory standards, protect residents from predatory practices, and deter other operators from similar violations.

The ministry reported receiving 112 new applications from money lenders, while 214 existing operators renewed their licences within the same period.

In 2025, the government recorded 112 applications for approval, compared with 214 renewals from existing firms during that year.

The State Government also announced plans to launch an automated pilgrimage registration system to improve service delivery, increase efficiency, and eliminate challenges associated with manual processing.

Layode explained that the new system would streamline registration for pilgrims and enhance operational efficiency within the ministry.

He added that the ministry would strengthen media engagement across various platforms and maintain tourism officers at the local government level as grassroots ambassadors for pilgrimage services.

The commissioner highlighted that Lagos continues to enjoy religious harmony and peaceful coexistence through collaboration with faith‑based groups and organisations across the state.

During the review period, the ministry processed 68 pilgrimage applications and cross‑examined 20 applicants for Naturalisation and Special Immigrant Status.

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