Kaduna Erupts in Applause as Governor Uba Sani Revives Christian Pilgrimage After 11-Year Hiatus

By Tgnews Reporter

In a move widely hailed as a landmark step toward religious equity and inclusive governance, Kaduna State Governor Senator Uba Sani has restored the long-suspended state-sponsored Christian Pilgrimage Programme, drawing widespread commendation from Christian faithful across the state.

The revival comes after an 11-year suspension, with the programme last active under previous administrations. The announcement was celebrated during the 2025 orientation session for 50 intending Christian pilgrims sponsored by the Kaduna State Government to visit holy sites in Israel.

This marks the first state-backed Christian pilgrimage in over a decade, signaling a renewed commitment to supporting the spiritual needs of all residents irrespective of faith.

Christian leaders and participants at the orientation expressed profound gratitude to Governor Sani, describing the decision as a powerful demonstration of fairness, justice, and a genuine effort to foster unity in a state once plagued by religious tensions.

Many noted that the restoration has rekindled hope, strengthened a sense of belonging among Christian communities, and reinforced trust in the government’s inclusive approach.

Representing the governor at the event, Commissioner of Information Ahmed Maiyaki conveyed Governor Sani’s message that the initiative aligns fully with his administration’s core principles of equity and inclusiveness for every citizen, regardless of religious affiliation.

He urged the pilgrims to use their journey as an opportunity to intercede in prayers for continued peace, unity, and prosperity in Kaduna State and Nigeria at large.

The Head of Service, Mrs. Jimami C. Bako, who also addressed the gathering, lauded the governor for recognizing faith as a vital pillar of societal harmony. She emphasized that Governor Sani’s leadership goes beyond physical and economic development to encompass spiritual growth and moral values, setting a new standard for governance in the region.

The programme’s resumption has been welcomed as part of broader efforts by the Uba Sani administration to promote interfaith harmony and heal past divisions. Beneficiaries and observers alike view it as a concrete step toward building a more cohesive Kaduna, where religious diversity is celebrated rather than a source of division.

This development follows the governor’s consistent engagement with Christian communities, including his attendance at unity Christmas carols and interactions with leaders of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Kaduna.

As the first batch of pilgrims prepares for their sacred journey, the state continues to position itself as a model of peaceful coexistence and equitable leadership in northern Nigeria.