Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has urged pilgrims from the state embarking on this year’s pilgrimage to deepen their relationship with God and offer prayers for peace and unity in Plateau State and across Nigeria. The governor made the call during a farewell ceremony held at the COCIN Headquarters Church in Jos on Monday.
Speaking to the intending pilgrims, Governor Mutfwang encouraged them to make the pilgrimage to the Holy Land a life-changing spiritual journey. He expressed hopes that their encounter with God would leave a positive impact on their spiritual lives and benefit their families and future generations.
“I pray that this trip to Jerusalem will not just be an ordinary journey for you but will serve as a platform for a life-changing encounter with God. May this experience positively transform your lives, benefit your families, and leave a legacy for generations to come,” the governor stated.
Governor Mutfwang also emphasized the importance of reflecting true Christianity in character and productivity. He urged the pilgrims to return as carriers of God’s presence, noting that their actions should serve as a testimony of their faith and commitment to God.
The governor revealed that the state government had facilitated the pilgrimage and was in talks with the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to expand the runway at the Jos Airport. This would enable international flights to airlift pilgrims directly from Jos, easing their travel experience.
Similarly, Reverend Wanson Yusufu Bagu, the Executive Secretary of the Plateau Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board, confirmed that the airlift of the 2025 pilgrims will be conducted directly from Plateau State. He expressed confidence in the preparations, stating that the first batch of pilgrims, numbering at least 255, will depart successfully from the state. He emphasized the thorough arrangements made for the smooth execution of the airlift.
Addressing concerns about the ongoing crisis in the Middle East, Reverend Bagu reassured the public that the security situation had been carefully monitored. He explained that although earlier plans to airlift pilgrims in April for the Easter pilgrimage were suspended due to heightened insecurity, the situation had since calmed. Based on assurances from the Nigerian Embassy in Jerusalem and other security apparatus, he expressed confidence that the pilgrimage would proceed safely.
Reverend Bagu also lauded Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s plans to upgrade the Yakubu Gowon Airport in Jos to international status, which would enable direct international flights for future pilgrimages. He praised the governor’s commitment and expressed excitement about the possibility of pilgrims being airlifted from Plateau State in the near future, describing it as a significant achievement.
