By: Adelowo Oladipo, Minna
The proposed Christian pilgrimage to the Holy Land by intending Pilgrims’ from Niger State is expected to commence following the approval and support of Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago.
This is contained in a statement issued by the Information and Public Relations Officer of the Board Lulabatu Mohammed Kusherki and made available to Journalists on Thursday in Minna
The development was disclosed during a familiarisation visit by newly appointed members of the Christian Board, led by Mrs Deborah Salawu, to the Christian Pilgrims’ Department of the Niger State Pilgrims’ Welfare Board at its conference hall in Minna.
Speaking during the meeting, the Director of the Christian Pilgrims’ Department, Mr Paul Lawrence, described the planned pilgrimage as a significant opportunity for Christians in the state to undertake spiritual journeys to the Holy Land.
He commended Governor Bago for approving the initiative and acknowledged the Executive Secretary of the Board for his efforts in facilitating the approval and supporting the department towards a successful exercise.
Mr Lawrence also briefed the board members on the department’s structure, activities, achievements , assuring them of the commitment of staff to delivering a well-organised pilgrimage.
Earlier, the leader of the delegate , Hon.Deborah Dzunma Salawu JP, said the visit was aimed at familiarising the board members with the department’s staff and strengthening unity, cooperation and teamwork ahead of the exercise.
She urged staff and board members to demonstrate dedication, mutual understanding and the fear of God in discharging their responsibilities.
Other members of the Christian Board, in their separate remarks, commended the staff for their commitment and pledged to work closely with the department to address operational challenges and facilitate the successful implementation of the pilgrimage programme.
Outlining the proposed preparatory activities, Mr Lawrence said the department would commence the following programmes after final approval:Production and broadcast of enlightenment jingles across FM radio stations.
Sensitisation tours across the three senatorial districts of Niger State,Screening of intending Christian Pilgrims’ to Jerusalem.
Responding on behalf of the staff, the Director of Finance, Mr Suleiman Gimba Jiya, expressed appreciation to the board members for the visit and reaffirmed the staff’s commitment and loyalty to the Board’s mandate.
The meeting ended with prayers for the successful conduct of the proposed pilgrimage and sustained peace in Niger State and Nigeria.
