The first batch of Bauchi State Christian pilgrims to Israel returned on Friday, its leader, Mr Abdon Gin, has announced.

Gin, who is also the state’s Head of Service, said in Bauchi on Saturday that the exercise was a success.
He commended the pilgrims for their good behaviours while in Israel, saying their conduct was a testimony of the moral reform and spiritual rebirth that the exercise aimed to achieve in their lives.

“This was the third time I led the state contingent on pilgrimage to Israel. I must tell you that I am highly impressed by their conduct.
“They were patient, attentive and adhered to every instructions given to them without complain.

“ And today, I am proud to tell you that I led 298 Christians from Bauchi State to Israel and returned with all of them back to Nigeria safe and sound.
“While in the holy land, we visited as many holy sites as we can.

“We prayed for our governor, Malam Isa Yuguda, Bauchi State, our leaders and above all, prayed for the sustainability of our dear country.
“It was such a wonderful experience and I am convinced it has mark a turning point in our lives; a new beginning with a renewed faith and strong spirit,’’ Gin said.

He thanked the officials of the state’s Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board for making the trip interesting and spiritually fulfilling.
Similarly, the Director-General of the board, Pastor Zakka Magaji, described the 2014 pilgrimage as the most successful so far.

“As far as I am concern, the 2014 exercise is the most successful pilgrimage so far.
“Almost all the people we went with are first timers, but they conducted themselves so well that you will think they have been there before.

“Their conduct, behaviour, cooperation and the mutual understanding among the pilgrims made our work so easy.
“They obey every instruction given to them and we walk as a family, believe me, we really had a nice time with God.

“We prayed together, confronts our challenges together, I am confident that our prayers of agreement will bring the desired change and peace in our nation,’’ Magaji said.

One of the pilgrims, Mrs Mero Sule, said that the exercise had really changed her life for good.
Sule thanked God for making the pilgrimage possible to visit the holy land to pray for herself, family and for peace and security in Nigeria.

“As a Christian it has uplift me spiritually; it has changed my life completely,’’ Sule said.
She said, in fact, she returned home a better person.