Kaduna State has officially brought back its Christian pilgrimage scheme after it was suspended for 11 years, with 50 intending pilgrims set to travel under full government sponsorship.
Gatekeepers News reports that the announcement was made during the 2025 orientation programme organised for selected participants, marking a major step toward restoring religious balance and inclusion in the state.
The revival of the programme has been widely applauded by Christian communities across Kaduna, who described the decision as a clear demonstration of fairness, equity, and inclusive leadership. Many church leaders and faith-based groups said the move has renewed confidence in the state government’s commitment to unity and peaceful coexistence among different religious groups.
The Head of Service in the state, Jimami Bako, praised Governor Uba Sani for approving the return of the pilgrimage exercise, noting that the decision reflects a leadership approach that recognises the importance of spiritual wellbeing alongside social, physical, and economic development. He stressed that encouraging religious activities contributes to moral values, discipline, and stronger community ties.
Similarly, the Commissioner for Information, Ahmed Maiyaki, said the initiative underscores the government’s dedication to justice, fairness, and religious harmony.
He urged the pilgrims to use the opportunity to pray for lasting peace, security, unity, and continuous progress in Kaduna State and across Nigeria. Maiyaki also encouraged them to act as worthy ambassadors of the state and the country throughout their stay.
Beneficiaries of the programme expressed gratitude to the state government, describing the development as a sign of renewed hope and trust. Many said the return of the pilgrimage scheme would strengthen interfaith relations and promote understanding among religious communities in Kaduna, which has a long history of diverse cultural and religious coexistence.
Records show that the last major Christian pilgrimage sponsored by the Kaduna State Government took place in November 2014, when 567 pilgrims were airlifted from the state airport to Israel. At the time, the then Governor, Ramalan Yero, addressed the pilgrims before departure, urging them to represent Nigeria positively and uphold the values of peace, discipline, and national unity during their visit to the Holy Land.
The restoration of the programme is expected to become an annual exercise once again, reinforcing the state’s commitment to religious freedom, inclusion, and balanced governance.
