The Lagos state government has successfully returned 310 Nigerians who were on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem, Israel, amidst the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu announced this development on his social media account, expressing his gratitude to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for ensuring the safety of the pilgrims.
A group of Christians from Lagos embarked on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem, and another set of pilgrims were scheduled to be airlifted to Israel. However, the program was suspended due to the recent outbreak of hostilities between Hamas and Israel.
The conflict, triggered by a Hamas attack and retaliatory responses from Israeli forces, has led to tragic casualties on both sides, with over 1,000 individuals losing their lives.
Governor Sanwo-Olu expressed his happiness about the safe return of the 310 citizens, thanked everyone for their concern, and commended the Ministry of Home Affairs for its effective coordination.
The Lagos State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board (LSCPWB) had announced the suspension of the planned Christian pilgrimage to Israel due to the security situation in Israel. The LSCPWB and the Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission (NCPC) are working on unveiling a revised schedule for the airlift of the second group of prospective pilgrims. The board expressed regret for any inconvenience caused and assured prospective pilgrims of being well-informed about the progress of their journey to the Holy Land.
Governor Sanwo-Olu concluded by expressing a prayer for peace in Israel and around the world.
