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Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani has authorised 50 Christians from Kaduna to undertake a pilgrimage, ending an 11-year suspension of the programme.
The Christian pilgrimage initiative was discontinued under former Governor Nasir El-Rufai, during whose tenure the state’s Christian Pilgrims Welfare Agency was dissolved, a decision that drew criticism from segments of the Christian community.
In a telephone interview on Wednesday, the Kaduna State Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Rev. Ma’aji Bawa, welcomed the governor’s approval, describing it as a major step toward inclusiveness and renewed confidence among Christians in the state.
Bawa said the decision had rekindled hope within the community after more than a decade without state-sponsored participation in pilgrimage activities.
Although only 50 individuals were initially authorised, he was confident that, as the programme expanded, the number would increase in subsequent exercises.
“We are grateful to Governor Uba Sani for approving 50 Christians to commence pilgrimage after 11 years. This decision has restored hope and strengthened the confidence of Christians in the state,” Bawa said.
He emphasised that pilgrimage is a solemn spiritual undertaking rather than a ceremonial trip, explaining that participants would use the opportunity to pray for peace, unity, and progress in Kaduna State and across Nigeria.
According to him, the reinstatement of the scheme carries both symbolic and spiritual importance, reflecting the government’s recognition of religious diversity and its commitment to inclusive governance.
He added that the move could strengthen relations between the state government and the Christian community.
The CAN chairman, however, urged authorities to ensure fairness and transparency in selecting beneficiaries. He stressed that those chosen should be individuals of proven integrity who understand the spiritual significance of the journey and can represent the state responsibly.
He also called on Christians in Kaduna to remain law-abiding and supportive of government initiatives aimed at promoting unity and development, while continuing to pray for the state’s leadership and overall progress.
