News Rendezvous

11th, August, 2025 News Rendezvous

Executive Secretary Chief Geoffrey Garba Praises Gov. Fintiri, President Tinubu as 266 pilgrims prepare for Israel; passport processing, health screening set for August 15.

The Adamawa State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board has announced that preparations for the 2025 Easter pilgrimage to Israel have reached an advanced stage, with 266 pilgrims from across the state set to participate in the spiritual journey.Speaking during a press briefing in Yola, the Executive Secretary of the Board, Chief Geoffrey Garba, expressed gratitude to Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri for his unwavering support towards the board’s activities, as well as to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to facilitating the annual pilgrimage.

According to Chief Garba, one of the major areas of focus ahead of the trip is ensuring that all intending pilgrims possess valid international passports. Those whose passports have expired, as well as those without any, are urged to report to the Board’s office for assistance.

The Board has secured an arrangement with the Nigeria Immigration Service in Yola to process passports on an express basis for all registered pilgrims.In addition, all intending pilgrims have been directed to report to the Board’s premises on Friday, August 15, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. for screening by officials of the National Christian Pilgrims Commission (NCPC).

The exercise will involve document verification, medical checks including blood pressure and sugar level tests, as well as assessments for general fitness. Pregnant women have been advised to defer their participation as they will not be eligible for visa issuance.

The Board also commended Governor Fintiri for the infrastructural upgrades at its headquarters, which include the completion of a multi-storey office building, renovation of existing office blocks, landscaping, and plans to raise the perimeter wall for enhanced security.Looking ahead, Chief Garba announced that the Board would embark on a state-wide sensitization campaign upon return from the Easter pilgrimage to promote self-sponsorship, noting that the cost for participation is pegged at ₦4–4.5 million per pilgrim, inclusive of Basic Travel Allowance (BTA), administrative fees, and other charges.

He reaffirmed the Board’s vision of sustaining the pilgrimage tradition while reducing reliance on government sponsorship, adding that preparations for the December 2025 pilgrimage will commence immediately after the Easter exercise.Chief Garba called on the public to continue supporting the Board with prayers for safe travel to Israel and back to Adamawa State.

Executive Secretary ,Adamawa Christian Pilgrims Board, Chief Geoffrey Garba