Koko Maxwella 
President, Bola Tinubu
OWERRI, Nigeria – President Bola Tinubu has warned Christian pilgrims travelling to Israel and Jordan not to abscond during their spiritual journey, urging them to show patriotism and dignity.
Speaking at the flag-off of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission’s (NCPC) delayed 2025 Easter pilgrimage in Owerri, Imo State, Tinubu, represented by Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, reminded pilgrims that illegal stay abroad strips individuals of “respect and dignity.”
“There is no country like Nigeria,” Tinubu said. “Return home with your batch so we can build a society where no one is oppressed.”
He praised the NCPC for achieving “near-zero absconding” under Bishop Prof. Stephen Adegbite’s leadership, warning that strict measures remain in place to deter defaulting.
The President reaffirmed government support for both Christian and Muslim pilgrimages, describing prayer as a sustaining force for the nation.
He linked the exercise’s theme, Pilgrimage of Renewed Hope for Total Restoration, to his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises security, youth empowerment, infrastructure, and education.
Acknowledging hardship caused by recent reforms, Tinubu assured pilgrims that “there will be light at the end of the tunnel,” citing reductions in insurgency, kidnapping, and banditry.
He also lauded Adegbite for organising four pilgrimages in two years and congratulated him on his recent appointment as State House Chaplain.
Tinubu further commended Governor Hope Uzodinma for sponsoring 1,000 pilgrims this year, continuing his strong support for religious exercises.
About the Author
Hussaini Ibrahim 
Mirian Gom 
Chukwu Obinna