By Tokunbo2

Copyright thesun

From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has issued a stern warning to Nigerian Christian pilgrims travelling to Israel and Jordan, urging them not to abscond during their spiritual journey and to uphold patriotism and dignity at all times.

He made the remarks on Wednesday at the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri, Imo State, while officially flagging off the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC) 2025 Delayed Easter Pilgrimage exercise.

Represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, President Tinubu described pilgrimage as a “spiritual journey of faith” and a crucial platform for moral transformation and spiritual rebirth. He emphasised the importance of the pilgrims’ return to Nigeria to help foster national unity and contribute to building “an egalitarian society where no man is oppressed.”

In a statement issued by Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Yomi Odunuga, President Tinubu said, “It is important at this point to admonish the intending Christian Pilgrims to show patriotism as they embark on this spiritual journey. You should not contemplate abscondment in your minds because there is no country like Nigeria. While in Nigeria, you have your freedom and you will be recognised in your own little way. But once you stay behind illegally, you have automatically lost all your respect and dignity.”

He further appealed to the pilgrims, “I therefore, urge you to ensure you return with your batch at the end of your pilgrimage exercise so that you can join forces with the government to build an egalitarian society where no man is oppressed.”

President Tinubu also acknowledged the strict measures implemented by the NCPC under the leadership of Stephen Adegbite to eliminate cases of abscondment among Nigerian pilgrims. He revealed that from December last year to date, the Commission has nearly achieved zero abscondment in all its pilgrimage exercises. “So be warned,” he underscored.

Reiterating his administration’s commitment to supporting religious pilgrimages for both Christians and Muslims, President Tinubu said, “Prayer remains a sustaining force for Nigeria. Our government is dedicated to promoting religious harmony across all faiths.”

The theme of the pilgrimage exercise, “Pilgrimage of Renewed Hope for Total Restoration,” resonates with the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which aims to enhance Nigerians’ quality of life through peace, security, infrastructure, youth empowerment, and education.

Tinubu acknowledged the difficulties faced by citizens under some tough policies but reassured, “There will certainly be light at the end of the dark tunnel.”

He lauded strides in reducing insurgency, kidnapping, and banditry, crediting the government’s resolve in restoring peace to communities nationwide.

Commending the NCPC, he said, “I congratulate Bishop Prof. Stephen Adegbite on his leadership in successfully organising four pilgrimages within two years, including this Easter pilgrimage. His recent appointment as Chaplain of the State House Chapel further speaks to his proven efficiency.”

President Tinubu also praised the Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodinma, for sponsoring 1,000 Christian pilgrims for the 2025 exercise, in addition to the same number supported in 2023. He hailed Governor Uzodinma’s commitment to the spiritual upliftment and infrastructural development of Imo State.

The Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission 2025 Delayed Easter Pilgrimage to Israel and Jordan officially commenced with this send-forth event, marking a significant moment for Nigerian pilgrims preparing to undertake this revered spiritual journey.