kaduna Resumes Christian Pilgrimage After 11 Years
Kaduna Resumes Christian Pilgrimage After 11 Years
Fifty Christians from Kaduna State are set to embark on pilgrimage after an 11-year suspension of the program, following approval by Governor Uba Sani. The decision marks the return of the state-sponsored Christian pilgrimage scheme, which had been halted for more than a decade.
The program was discontinued during the administration of former Governor Nasir El-Rufai, when the Christian Pilgrims Welfare Agency was scrapped. The move drew criticism at the time, especially from segments of the Christian community who viewed it as a setback.
Reacting to the development, the Kaduna State Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Rev. Ma’aji Bawa, described the governor’s approval as a bold and inclusive step. He said the decision had renewed hope among Christians in the state and restored confidence in the government’s commitment to religious balance.
Bawa noted that although only 50 pilgrims were approved, the gesture represents a fresh start. He expressed optimism that the number would increase in subsequent exercises, allowing more faithful to participate in future pilgrimages.
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He stressed that pilgrimage is a sacred spiritual duty, not a social event. According to him, those selected will seek divine guidance and pray for peace, unity and development in Kaduna State and Nigeria. He added that the revival of the scheme signals official recognition of the role of faith in fostering social harmony.
The CAN chairman also called for transparency in the selection process. He urged authorities to ensure that only committed and responsible Christians are chosen to represent the state with dignity.
Meanwhile, former Kaduna Central senator Shehu Sani welcomed the resumption of the Christian pilgrimage program. In a post on X, he described the move as a reflection of fair leadership and a departure from previous policies.
The return of Christian pilgrimage in Kaduna is likely to resonate beyond the state, as observers see it as a step toward religious inclusion and renewed engagement between government and faith communities.
Content credit: AMOSUN AZEEZ
Image credit: Google .Com
