Governor Uba Sani has approved 50 Christians from Kaduna State to embark on holy pilgrimage, bringing an end to an 11-year suspension of the program.
The decision marks a major policy shift in the state’s approach to Christian pilgrimage sponsorship. The scheme had been halted during the administration of former Governor Nasir El-Rufai, when the Christian Pilgrims Welfare Agency was scrapped.
The suspension of the agency at the time generated debate and dissatisfaction among sections of the Christian community in the state. Many church leaders had argued that while Muslim pilgrims continued to receive government support for pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia, the Christian pilgrimage programme was discontinued.
With the latest approval, Governor Sani has reopened the door for state-sponsored Christian pilgrims, although the number is limited to 50 for now.
The Kaduna State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) welcomed the development. Its Chairman, Rev. Ma’aji Bawa, described the decision as bold and inclusive.
“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 noted that the move sends a message that the government is ready to work with all religious groups in the state.
Rev. Bawa described the governor’s approval as a first step that could open the way for more beneficiaries in future exercises.
“Although the number is 50 for now, we believe it is a foundation to build upon. We trust that the government will gradually increase the number so more faithful can participate,” he said.
He stressed that pilgrimage is not a leisure trip but a serious spiritual exercise. According to him, those selected will travel to holy sites to pray for peace, unity and development in Kaduna State and Nigeria as a whole.
“Pilgrimage is not a jamboree. Those going are embarking on a spiritual journey to seek God’s face. They will pray for peace, unity and development in Kaduna State and Nigeria at large,” he said.
Christian pilgrimage from Nigeria is usually coordinated at the federal level by the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission, which oversees travel to Israel, Jordan, Rome and other holy sites. However, states often sponsor a number of pilgrims each year as part of welfare and religious support programmes.
In Kaduna, the scrapping of the Christian Pilgrims Welfare Agency more than a decade ago meant that no state-sponsored Christian pilgrim was officially sent during that period. The decision had remained a sensitive issue, especially in a state known for its religious diversity and history of communal tensions.
Kaduna State has both large Christian and Muslim populations. Over the years, the state has experienced periods of religious and ethnic conflict, making issues of inclusion and fairness especially important.
Rev. Bawa said the restoration of the pilgrimage scheme shows recognition of the role faith plays in society.
“This gesture shows inclusiveness and respect for religious diversity. It strengthens the relationship between the government and the Christian community,” he added.
However, he called for transparency in selecting the 50 beneficiaries. He said the process must be fair and credible to avoid complaints or misunderstanding.
“We expect a credible and transparent process. Those selected must understand the purpose of pilgrimage and represent the state with dignity,” he said.
He added that only spiritually committed and responsible individuals should be chosen to represent Kaduna State.
Since assuming office in 2023, Governor Sani has spoken about the need for unity and peaceful coexistence among the people of Kaduna. Political analysts say this decision could be part of broader efforts to promote inclusiveness and reduce religious tension.
Religious leaders in the state have often played key roles in peacebuilding and conflict resolution. Many believe that encouraging spiritual activities such as pilgrimage can promote moral values and social harmony.
Rev. Bawa urged Christians in Kaduna to remain law-abiding and supportive of government policies.
“As believers, we must continue to obey the laws of the land and support initiatives that promote unity and development. We also have a duty to pray for our leaders and the progress of our state,” he said.
He expressed hope that the resumption of the pilgrimage programme would bring spiritual renewal across the state.
For many Christians in Kaduna, the approval of 50 pilgrims may be small in number, but it carries strong symbolic meaning. It signals a return to official support for Christian pilgrimage after more than a decade of suspension.
As preparations begin for the journey, attention will likely focus on how the selection process is handled and whether the government will expand the number of beneficiaries in the coming years.
For now, the decision has been welcomed by church leaders as a positive step toward inclusion, mutual respect and stronger cooperation between the government and the Christian community in Kaduna State.
