From Joseph Adahnu, Yola
The Adamawa State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board, is set to airlift close to 700 faithful for the 2026 Christian pilgrimage to Israel.
The Executive Secretary of the Board, Chief Geoffrey Garba, disclosed this in Yola, saying Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, has approved sponsorship for 500 pilgrims.
According to him, an additional 120 slots have been allocated across the 21 local government areas of the state, while provision has also been made for self-sponsored participants, bringing the total to about 700.
Garba said application forms have been printed, distributed and returned, while documentation has been completed.
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He added that a three-day medical screening is currently ongoing to ascertain the physical fitness of intending pilgrims and identify health or security concerns.
The screening panel, he said, comprises officials of the National Christian Pilgrims Commission (NCPC), National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Nigeria Immigration Service, Police, Department of State Services (DSS) and other security agencies.
The Executive Secretary emphasised that the board has zero tolerance for absconding, noting that Adamawa contingents have always returned intact.
“We are not known for that here,” he said, adding that thorough character checks, including phone and communication reviews, are part of the screening process.
He recalled that during the 2025 pilgrimage, two individuals were dropped after security concerns were flagged, one of them already at the point of boarding.
Garba disclosed that a pre-visit by state and national officials is expected in October to inspect hotels, accommodation and holy sites ahead of the main departure. The pilgrimage typically lasts between 11 and 12 days.
He commended the NCPC headquarters for its support and presence during the screening exercise, pledging that the Adamawa contingent would uphold high standards throughout the pilgrimage.
