Emmanuel OchayiLagos State government has successfully repatriated 310 Nigerian pilgrims who embarked on a spiritual journey to Jerusalem, Israel, due to the ongoing turmoil between the country and Hamas militants.
The state Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu made this known via his X account on Tuesday, emphasizing the pivotal role played by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in ensuring the security of the pilgrims.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelGovernor Sanwo-Olu said: “I’m happy to announce that we have successfully airlifted and returned all three hundred and ten (310) citizens who went on pilgrimage to Jerusalem, Israel. I want to thank you all for your concern, and I must also express my joy to our Ministry of Home Affairs for a job well done. We pray for peace in Israel and indeed the world at large.”
The Christian pilgrims from Lagos had embarked on the journey to Jerusalem, with another group set to join them, but their plans were temporarily suspended due to the escalation of hostilities between Hamas and Israel. The unfortunate conflict has already claimed the lives of over 1,000 individuals on both sides.
Earlier, the Board Secretary of the Lagos State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board (LSCPWB), Mrs. Florence Gbafe, explained the decision to suspend the pilgrimage, citing a careful assessment of the security situation in Israel.
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She reassured prospective pilgrims that a revised schedule for the airlift of the second group would be unveiled soon, promising to keep them informed about their journey to the Holy Land.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
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