Oyo State Christian pilgrims who embarked on a holy pilgrimage to Israel have safely returned to Nigeria despite rising tensions between the United States and Iran in the Middle East.
The Special Assistant to Governor Seyi Makinde on Interfaith Matters, Reverend Femi Ibikunle, eho was also on the trip, confirmed the development exclusively to westernmirror.com.ng on Wednesday, March 4.
According to him, the pilgrims arrived in the country on the night of March 3 MMA International Airport, Lagos.
Reverend Ibikunle expressed gratitude to God for what he described as a safe and successful return, noting that the security situation in parts of the Middle East created anxiety during the trip.
He lamented that the ongoing conflict and heightened hostilities in the region affected their travel arrangements, forcing adjustments to their original itinerary.
He disclosed that their return flight departed from Israel and made a stop in Turkey before proceeding to Nigeria.
“The tension in the region was noticeable, and it altered our movement plans. However, we thank God that all the pilgrims are back home safely,” he said.
The governor’s aide added that throughout the pilgrimage, necessary safety measures were observed and the welfare of the pilgrims remained a top priority.
The latest round of geopolitical tension between the US, Israel and Iran has raised concerns globally, with ripple effects on air travel and security arrangements across parts of the Middle East.
Families and church members who had awaited the pilgrims’ return were said to have received them with relief, as fears over possible escalation of the ongoing war had heightened in recent days.
Reverend Ibikunle reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of citizens participating in religious pilgrimages, regardless of prevailing global uncertainties.