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The Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Bago, has cautioned Christian pilgrims in the state against embarking on the 2024 pilgrimage to Israel due to the escalating conflict in the Middle East.
He described the situation as too dangerous to guarantee their safety.
Speaking at the annual Christmas Carol event held at the Justice Legbo Kutigi International Conference Hall in Minna, Governor Bago, represented by the Deputy Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Afiniki Dauda, emphasised the risks associated with the journey.
The event was organised by the state government in collaboration with the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN).
“I appeal to the Christian faithful in the state to exercise patience over this year’s pilgrimage to Israel due to the lack of peace in the Holy Land.
“Allowing pilgrims to travel there would be equivalent to signing their death warrants,” he said.
The governor underscored his administration’s commitment to prioritising the safety of its citizens.
“I am not willing to give tickets that would lead to the death of our Christian brothers and sisters.
“We urge them to wait until peace returns to the Middle East,” he stated.
In response, the Chairman of the Niger State chapter of CAN, Rev Bulus Yohanna, appealed to the governor to explore alternative pilgrimage destinations.
“There are opportunities at the federal level for pilgrimage to Jordan/Israel, Turkey/Jordan, and Rome or Greece,” Rev Yohanna noted.
He also encouraged Christians to remain supportive of the government through prayers and acts of love.
The Christmas Carol, part of the state’s festive season celebrations, provided a platform for the government and religious leaders to discuss critical issues affecting the Christian community.
Governor Bago’s caution comes amidst ongoing violence in the Middle East, highlighting the need for vigilance and alternative arrangements to ensure the safety of pilgrims.