Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, has officially sent off a contingent of 230 intending Christian pilgrims from the state to Jerusalem, Israel. The farewell ceremony took place on Wednesday, 8th January 2026, at the Wulari-Jerusalem EYN Church in Maiduguri.
Governor's Message of Peace and Responsibility
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Malam Bukar Tijani, Governor Zulum charged the pilgrims to be exemplary ambassadors of both Borno State and Nigeria. He emphasized the importance of their conduct during the two-week spiritual journey.
"I urge you to be responsible ambassadors by exhibiting good behaviour and praying for Borno State and the nation while in the holy land," the governor's message stated. Tijani further highlighted that despite past security challenges, residents of Borno now live in relative peace and harmony, a condition the pilgrims should reflect through their actions.
Appreciation from Pilgrims' Board and Christian Leaders
The Executive Secretary of the Borno State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board (BOCPW), Elder James Rangi Ndirmbita, expressed profound gratitude to Governor Zulum, his deputy, Usman Gadafur, and the Commissioner of Religious Affairs for facilitating the 2026 pilgrimage. He noted that such initiatives are vital for promoting unity and spiritual growth within the state's diverse community.
In a vote of thanks, Bishop John Bakeni, the head of the pilgrims' delegation and Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Borno, praised the governor's people-oriented leadership. Represented by the Deputy Head, Rev. Iliya Ndirmbita, Bishop Bakeni thanked the state government for its support, which made the pilgrimage possible. He assured that the pilgrims would offer prayers for the state and its leaders.
Government's Commitment to Spiritual and Educational Welfare
The farewell ceremony was attended by other dignitaries including the Commissioner of Religious Affairs, Alhaji Babagana Malarima. The event underscored the state government's commitment to the spiritual welfare of its citizens, encouraging values of peace, unity, and goodwill.
In a related development highlighting the administration's broader focus on welfare, Governor Zulum has commenced the construction of two mega secondary schools in Hawul Local Government Area. This project aims to tackle the issue of out-of-school children and boost education in the state's southern senatorial district.
Furthermore, a 48-classroom High Islamic College (HIMC) will be built in the Shafa community along the Biu-Garkida-Gombi road. During the foundation-laying ceremony also held on Wednesday, Governor Zulum stated that the college would operate under the accredited curriculum of the National Board for Arabic and Islamic Studies (NBAIS), providing holistic modern Islamic education.
