Lagos repatriates stranded pilgrims as Israel-Hamas war escalates

The Lagos State Government has successfully returned 310 Nigerian citizens who had embarked on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem, Israel. This development comes amid heightened tensions and hostilities between Israel and Hamas in the region.

The announcement of this successful repatriation was made by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu through his official social media account on Tuesday. He took a moment to express his gratitude to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for its vital role in ensuring the safety and well-being of the pilgrims.

A group of devoted Christians from Lagos State had initially embarked on this pilgrimage to Jerusalem, with another set of pilgrims scheduled for departure on October 10th. However, the unfolding conflict between Hamas and Israel prompted a temporary suspension of the pilgrimage program.

The conflict, marked by a recent attack by Hamas followed by retaliatory measures from Israeli forces, has regrettably resulted in the loss of over 1,000 lives on both sides.

Governor Sanwo-Olu conveyed his message through his social media platform, stating, “I’m delighted to announce the successful airlift and safe return of all three hundred and ten (310) citizens who embarked on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem, Israel. My heartfelt appreciation goes to each one of you for your concern, and I must also extend my appreciation to our Ministry of Home Affairs for their exceptional efforts. Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Israel and with the world as a whole for enduring peace.”

Earlier, Mrs Florence Gbafe, the Board Secretary of the Lagos State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board (LSCPWB), had officially announced the suspension of the planned Christian pilgrimage to Israel in a statement released on Monday. This decision was made in light of a careful assessment of the ongoing security situation in Israel.