Niger State Governor Urges Patience on Christian Pilgrimage to Israel Amid Middle East Unrest
Niger State Governor Mohammed Umar Bago has appealed to Christians in the state to remain patient regarding their annual pilgrimage to Israel due to ongoing unrest in the Middle East.
Speaking at the 2024 State Christmas Carol, held at the Justice Legbo Kutigi International Conference Hall in Minna, Governor Bago, represented by Deputy Speaker Afiniki Dauda of the Niger State House of Assembly, stressed the importance of prioritizing safety in light of the volatile situation in the Holy Land.
“We Cannot Risk Lives,” Says Governor
Highlighting the risks posed by the conflict in Israel, Governor Bago stated:
“I am not willing to give tickets that would lead to the death of our Christian brothers and sisters. I urge them to be patient and wait until peace returns to the Middle East. The safety of our citizens is paramount, and we will not compromise on that.”
The governor emphasized that authorizing pilgrimages under the current conditions would be equivalent to endangering the lives of the state’s Christian population.
CAN Chairman Appeals for Broader Pilgrimage Options
During the event, the Chairman of the Niger State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Most Rev. Dr. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, appealed to Governor Bago to consider alternative pilgrimage options.
Rev. Yohanna proposed destinations such as Jordan, Turkey, Rome, or Greece, noting that opportunities exist at the federal level for interested pilgrims. He urged the state government to explore these options for the spiritual benefit of Christians in Niger State.
The CAN chairman also encouraged Christians to continue praying for the governor and to demonstrate love and generosity during the Christmas season.
Focus on Peace and Safety
Governor Bago reiterated his administration’s commitment to the safety and well-being of all citizens, urging Christians to remain steadfast in their faith and hopeful for peace to return to the Middle East.
