- Blames Middle East geo-political challenges for delay
BY EVELYN DADU – Minister of State, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, has challenged all pilgrims from the nation’s capital to focus more on prayers, spiritual growth, and support for Nigeria’s peace and development during their pilgrimage to the Holy Land.
She said pilgrimage is a spiritually enriching experience that offers immeasurable blessings and the pilgrims must take advantage to pray for the country’s well-being in these very challenging times.
Speaking at the pre-departure orientation programme for intending pilgrims embarking on the 2025 Easter pilgrimage to the Holy Lands of Israel and the Kingdom of Jordan, the Minister noted that the exercise was delayed due to recent geo-political challenges in the Middle East.
Dr Mahmoud stressed the FCT Administration’s dedication to protecting and safeguarding the welfare of Christian pilgrims from the territory, under the leadership of Barrister Nyesom Wike, the FCT Minister.
She also commended the Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission (NCPC) for its vital role in coordinating pilgrimages nationwide and pledged continued cooperation between the FCT Administration and the NCPC to ensure successful pilgrimages and spiritual wellbeing for all participants.
In her remarks at the programme, Director FCT Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board, Gloria Dandam, reminded the intending pilgrims that the exercise is not only a holy trip, but also a sacred journey that would deepen one’s faith, and strengthen relationship with God.
She said experts from various areas have been carefully selected to equip pilgrims with the essential tips that would assist them while performing this sacred journey.
According to her, “As pilgrims, you are not just visiting historical landmarks; you are on a journey of renewal, reflection, and redemption.
“You will have the opportunity to seek God’s blessings and pray for peace in our homes, country, and the world.”
“I urge you all to support and encourage one another throughout the journey. Pilgrimage is not only an individual pursuit but a collective one,” she counseled.
