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For 500 students from public schools across Lagos’ six education districts, Christmas arrived early. During events marking his birthday in November, Rt. Hon. (Dr) Mudashiru Obasa, Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, promised a cash gift of ₦100,000 to each student who attended to celebrate with him, sparking waves of excitement among them. Speaker Obasa has redeemed his promise, giving the students a December to remember.

Dr. (Mrs.) Sherifat Abiodun Adedoyin, a member of the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (LASUBEB), announced the redemption of the cash gift. “Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa, Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, has graciously redeemed his promise of ₦100,000 each for 500 students across Lagos State. This generous commitment was made during his recent birthday celebration on November 11, 2025, and it truly highlights his steadfast dedication to enhancing education and the well-being of children in Lagos State.”

Adedoyin stated further, “We deeply appreciate this wonderful gesture, which will significantly help meet the educational needs of the students and promote academic excellence. May this act of kindness continue to inspire hope and create a positive impact in our community.”

The ₦50 Million Educational Support, according to the Speaker, is an investment in the future of the public secondary school students, representing invaluable opportunities for education, vocational training, and entrepreneurship.

Indeed, at the pre-birthday event, themed “The Youth: Striving to Greater Heights,” which brought together students from across the state, Speaker Obasa’s empowerment initiative turned a personal milestone into a defining moment for youth development in the state.

He also seized the opportunity to inspire and challenge the youth, reminding them that challenges harbour lots of opportunities and that it takes laser-like focus, perseverance, and a steadfast faith in God to pull through.

“This personal journey is not just my story; it is a message to every young person here and those watching across various platforms. It is a wake-up call- a call to rise, to believe in yourself, and pursue your dreams with passion and determination.

“The sky is not the limit; it is only the beginning when you choose to unlock your potential and embrace the opportunities that abound in our great nation.”

Speaker Obasa capped the day with the announcement of a structured mentorship program to pair young talents with seasoned professionals, which he described as a pathway to sustained growth and impact. “This isn’t just inspiration, it’s a pathway to greatness,” he affirmed.

In a remarkable display of festive generosity and community service, Nigerian gospel recording artist Testimony Jaga handed out rice and other essential food items to thousands of residents in Lagos this Christmas season, sharing the joy of the birth of Jesus Christ with families battling economic hardship.

Organised as part of his annual yuletide outreach, the distribution saw crowds gather in several neighbourhoods where rice, beans, garri, and other staples were given free of charge to vulnerable individuals and families. The initiative was aimed at easing the burden of festive expenses for low-income residents and reinforcing the spirit of charity that underlies Christmas celebrations.

Testimony Jaga, whose real name is Salau Aliu Olayiwola, has long been known not only for his dynamic fusion of Fuji and afro-pop gospel music but also for his deep commitment to social welfare through the Street Gospel Movement. The movement combines musical evangelism with tangible acts of goodwill, including medical outreaches, gifts for children, and support to those in need.

Speaking during the distribution event, Jaga emphasised the importance of giving back to the community, especially at Christmas, a season Christians celebrate as the birth of Jesus Christ — a moment that symbolizes hope, compassion, and selfless giving.

“This season reminds us of the greatest gift ever given,” he said, addressing a gathering of beneficiaries. “We are here to share food not just as sustenance, but as a sign of love, hope, and unity. Christmas is more than a celebration; it is a reminder to uplift others.”

The distribution drew support from volunteers, local leaders, and fans of the artist, with many praising Jaga for using his platform to make a concrete impact in people’s lives. Beneficiaries expressed gratitude, saying the gesture would make a meaningful difference in their holiday celebrations.

Testimony Jaga’s outreach mirrors a broader wave of charitable efforts seen across Nigeria this festive period, as individuals, community leaders, and organisations also stepped up to provide food and relief items to families ahead of Christmas Day, reflecting a growing culture of grassroots philanthropy at a time of economic challenges for many Nigerians.

As Testimony Jaga continues his dual mission of spiritual inspiration and social service, his annual Christmas giveaway reinforces the message that faith can find expression not only in worship but in acts of kindness that touch everyday lives.