Adamawa Pilgrims Welfare Board Ramps Up Preparations for 2025 Easter Pilgrimage

Daily Rendezvous, Yola, Nigeria

The Adamawa State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board has expressed satisfaction with the turnout and orderly conduct of intending pilgrims during the ongoing screening exercise for the 2025 Easter pilgrimage to Israel and Jordan.

Speaking at the board’s headquarters in Yola during the exercise on Friday, the Executive Secretary of the Board, Chief Geoffrey Garba, described the process as smooth and commendable. He praised intending pilgrims for adhering to guidelines, especially by avoiding the inclusion of overage or medically unfit persons in their applications.

Garba acknowledged some logistical delays, particularly with nominees from remote areas like Madagali and Toungo, but assured pilgrims that no one would be left out.

 “The screening exercise will continue on Monday, August 18, under the supervision of the Nigeria Christian Pilgrims Commission (NCPC), Yola zone, so that those who missed today’s session can be accommodated,” he said.

The Executive Secretary further emphasized the importance of self-sponsorship, urging churches, politicians, and well-meaning individuals to support the pilgrimage, particularly as the federal government has subsidized ₦3 million of the ₦6.8 million cost for each pilgrim.

Administrative Secretary Commends Pilgrims’ Turnout

In his remarks, the Administrative Secretary of the Board, Nuhu Maunde, congratulated the 2025 Easter pilgrims for turning out en masse for the screening exercise. He described their presence at the board headquarters as “valuable” and a demonstration of commitment to making the pilgrimage a success.

Maunde also expressed gratitude to traditional rulers who attended the exercise despite their busy schedules.

“Their presence and support have left a lasting impression on everyone involved, and we hope that similar commitment will be shown during the orientation programme,” he noted.

However, he lamented the absence of some nominees submitted by the Ministry for Local Government Affairs, including all three intending pilgrims from Lamurde Local Government, two each from Ganye and Demsa, and one from Toungo. Seven ministry officials were also absent. He appealed to them to ensure their participation in Monday’s continuation of the exercise.

Royal Fathers Commend Orderliness, Call for Commitment

His Royal Majesty, Bulus Alheri Nyako, the paramount ruler of the Kilba Kingdom and leader of this year’s Adamawa delegation, praised the government’s sponsorship of 263 pilgrims despite economic challenges. He described the exercise as smooth and orderly, urging pilgrims to focus on the spiritual purpose of the journey.

Similarly, His Royal Majesty, Professor Bulus Luka Gadiga, the Mbege Ka Michika and paramount ruler of Michika Kingdom, expressed appreciation to Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri and the board. He admonished pilgrims to treat the journey as an opportunity for renewal and transformation, not sightseeing.

Religious Leaders Urge Pilgrims to Pray for Nigeria

- The state’s Christian community leaders also weighed in.

Rev. Manzo, President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Adamawa State chapter, encouraged pilgrims to approach the journey as a sacred opportunity for prayer and intercession for both leaders and citizens.

Rev. Joel Billi, President of TEKAN (The Fellowship of Churches of Christ in Nigeria), lauded Adamawa’s long-standing reputation as one of the most orderly states in pilgrimage conduct. He called on pilgrims to uphold that tradition while praying for wisdom and grace for leaders at all levels.

Towards a Spiritually Fruitful Pilgrimage

With the successful start of the screening exercise, the Adamawa State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board has assured intending pilgrims of a well-organised process leading to the Easter pilgrimage. With the backing of government, the guidance of church leaders, and the support of traditional rulers, the 2025 exercise is expected to strengthen the faith of participants while promoting peace and unity across Adamawa State and Nigeria.