By Alexis Uchendu
The Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, has emphasized that Christian pilgrimage is a spiritual exercise aimed at deepening faith and promoting personal transformation, not a recreational activity.
Speaking during the pre-departure orientation for the 2023/2024 pilgrimage, attended by 290 FCT pilgrims traveling to Israel and Jordan, Mahmoud described the journey as a sacred call to spiritual growth and responsibility.
“Pilgrimage is neither a jamboree nor tourism. It is a spiritual call to strengthen faith and attain a new level of spirituality and responsibility,” she stated.
Mahmoud assured the pilgrims of the FCT Administration’s support, highlighting the orientation’s purpose in preparing them mentally and emotionally for the journey’s significance.
She urged them to pray for Nigeria’s peace, progress, and leadership during their time in the Holy Lands.
Commending the Nigeria Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), under Bishop Stephen Adegbite, Mahmoud reaffirmed the FCT Administration’s commitment to supporting faith-based initiatives that foster moral and spiritual growth.
Gloria Dandam, Director of the FCT Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board, described the pilgrimage as a chance to strengthen one’s relationship with God while embracing values of peace, love, and hope.
She assured pilgrims of expert guidance throughout the journey and thanked the FCT Administration, including Barrister Nyesom Wike and Dr. Mahmoud, for their unwavering support.
The exercise underscores the FCT Administration’s dedication to fostering spiritual and moral development through faith-based programs.
