Zulum Flags Off Jerusalem Pilgrimage, Urges 230 Travellers to Be Good Ambassadors

Zulum Flags Off Jerusalem Pilgrimage, Urges 230 Travellers to Be Good Ambassadors

Tada Jutha, Maiduguri

Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, has bid farewell to 230 Christian intending pilgrims heading to Jerusalem, urging them to conduct themselves responsibly and pray for peace and development in the state and the country.

The farewell ceremony held on Wednesday at Wulari–Jerusalem EYN Church in Maiduguri saw the governor represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Malam Bukar Tijani.

“I thank our governor for facilitating this year’s Christian pilgrimage to Jerusalem in Israel,” Tijani said, noting that despite past security challenges, Borno residents are now living in an atmosphere of peace and harmony.

He encouraged both male and female pilgrims to be “responsible ambassadors of Borno and Nigeria” by demonstrating exemplary conduct throughout the two-week holy trip.

Tijani further highlighted the importance of unity, peaceful coexistence, and prayers for leaders and the nation, urging the group to “act as brothers’ keepers, uphold goodwill, and promote positive values.”

Executive Secretary of the Borno State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board (BOCPW), Elder James Rangi Ndirmbita, expressed gratitude to Governor Zulum, Deputy Governor Usman Kadafur, and the Commissioner of Religious Affairs for sustaining government support to Christian pilgrims.

He said the exercise was vital for spiritual development and strengthening bonds among diverse communities in the state.

In a vote of thanks, Bishop John Bakeni—represented by Rev. Iliya Ndirmbita—appreciated the governor for “people-orientated development projects” and for enabling the pilgrimage to become a reality for many Christians in Borno.

He noted that Christians in the state “continue to enjoy peaceful coexistence under the governor’s exemplary leadership” and assured that pilgrims would intercede for Borno and Nigeria while in the Holy Land.

Other dignitaries present included the Commissioner for Religious Affairs, Alhaji Babagana Malarima, and other senior government officials.

The ceremony underscored the state government’s commitment to promoting spiritual welfare, harmony, and mutual respect among its citizens as the pilgrims embark on their journey to Jerusalem.