Kaduna State Government Resumes Christian Pilgrimage, Sponsors 50 Pilgrims
The Kaduna State Government has resumed its Christian pilgrimage programme after an 11-year suspension, approving 50 pilgrims in what officials describe as a renewed push for inclusiveness, religious balance, and interfaith harmony.
The revival was announced during the orientation programme for the state-sponsored pilgrims, marking the first official Christian pilgrimage from Kaduna since November 2014, when 567 pilgrims were airlifted to Israel.
The programme had been halted during the administration of former governor Nasir El-Rufai, when the Christian Pilgrims Welfare Agency was scrapped, a decision that drew criticism from sections of the Christian community.
Speaking at the orientation, the Head of Service, Jummai Bako, said restoring the pilgrimage reflects a leadership approach that values spiritual wellbeing alongside economic and infrastructural development. She urged the pilgrims to pray for peace, unity, and progress in Kaduna State and Nigeria.
The Commissioner for Information, Ahmed Maiyaki, said the resumption demonstrates the government’s commitment to justice, fairness, and religious inclusiveness in a state with diverse faith communities.
The Kaduna State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) welcomed the decision, describing it as a sign of renewed trust and improved relations between the government and Christian faithful. Christian leaders noted that although the initial quota of 50 pilgrims is modest, they expect the number to increase in subsequent exercises.
Officials and community leaders said the move signals a broader effort by Governor Uba Sani’s administration to promote reconciliation and unity across religious lines after years of tension, with beneficiaries describing the restored pilgrimage as both symbolic and reassuring for Christian residents of the state.
