The Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission (NCPC) has revealed plans to introduce travel subsidies for intending Christian pilgrims, a move aimed at easing the financial burden associated with pilgrimage trips.
This was made known by the Federal Commissioner representing the North-Central zone, Simon Dolly, during a visit to the Plateau Pilgrims Board in Jos.
According to Dolly, the Federal Government is set to provide financial support that will offset a significant portion of travel costs for pilgrims. He noted that the initiative is particularly targeted at individuals funding their trips independently.
“The good news is that the federal government will also give another intervention for travel.
“What you people are paying is almost half, while the federal government pays the other part of it.
“Our own money that was given is almost gone, but we are expecting another intervention for this year’s pilgrimage.
“If Plateau can also get good numbers to enjoy the subsidy, instead of paying N7 million per pilgrim, it will be N3.5 million,” he said.
Dolly further encouraged the Plateau Pilgrims Board to broaden its sponsorship base by engaging private individuals, business leaders, and political office holders. He noted that such efforts would help reduce over-reliance on government funding.
In his response, the Chairman of the Plateau Pilgrims Board, Jwan Zhumbes, expressed appreciation for the consistent support provided by the commission.
“We want to thank you for the support to Plateau at all times.
“I want to assure you that the board is working hard to better serve the pilgrims on the Plateau,” he said.
Other officials present at the meeting included Rev. Yusuf Bagu, the board’s Executive Secretary, and Mr Gayi Timothy, who represented the Secretary to the State Government, among others.
The planned subsidy is expected to make pilgrimage participation more accessible, especially for individuals who may have previously struggled with the high cost of travel.
