Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has asked intending Christian Pilgrims to the Holy Land to devote time in praying for the peace and progress of the State and the nation at large as they prepare for the spiritual exercise.

Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has asked intending Christian Pilgrims to the Holy Land to devote time in praying for the peace and progress of the State and the nation at large as they prepare for the spiritual exercise.

The Governor was speaking at a farewell ceremony for intending pilgrims from Plateau State to the Holy Land held at the Government House Chapel Rayfield Jos.

Lalong said Christian Pilgrimage to the Holy Land is an exercise that carries a lot of significance not only to those participating but to the Christian faith and society at large.

Lalong said “Dear intending pilgrims, you are embarking on this spiritual exercise at a time when our nation is in dire need for prayers as we conclude the general elections. Please pray for Plateau State and Nigeria that we will have a smooth transition and also experience more stability, prosperity and happiness. You should also ask God to give our leaders and indeed all Nigerians the wisdom to unite and deal with the myriad of security and economic challenges we face today. It is very important that you present our nation before God and solemnly reflect on your role as believers towards building a better Nigeria. Indeed, when we turn to God with a sincere heart, our land will be healed. Please pray earnestly for Plateau and Nigeria while you are there. Those who are coming into office in a few months need Gods guidance and direction”.

He also reminded them that Pilgrimage is not a jamboree or an exercise for frivolity. It is a deeply spiritual exercise that connects people to the Christian faith by offering them an opportunity to see, feel and touch some of the accounts rendered in the Holy Bible. It also enables them appreciate the spirit and letter of the Word of God from historical perspective to present age.

The Governor warned that any intending pilgrim that is caught trying to abscond will be made to face the full wrath of the law as Government will not take it lightly with those who attempt to bring the name of Plateau State and Nigeria to disrepute.

Executive Secretary of the Plateau State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board Very Rev. Fr. George Goshi Gorap praised Governor Lalong for his consistent sponsorship of pilgrims to the Holy Land saying from 2015 to 2023, about 4,570 pilgrims and officials performed the exercise from Plateau State with many sponsorship themselves and Government supporting the officials.

He said the Board is working in harmony with the NCPC to ensure that the exercise goes smoothly.

Chairman of the Board Rev. Koppah Shitkuum also commended Governor Lalong for not only enhancing Pilgrimage exercise in the State but also working hard to restore peace and and security in Plateau State.

In an exhortation, Rev. Dachomo reading from 1Peter 2:11-12 urged the pilgrims to take the exercise seriously and focus on renewing their relationship with God since they are pilgrims on earth looking forward to eternal life with Christ Jesus.