From Musa Muhammad Kutama, Calabar
The Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, has charged the 21 Muslim intending pilgrims from the state to be good ambassadors of both Cross River and Nigeria as they embark on their journey to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for this year’s Hajj.
Governor Otu gave the charge on Wednesday in Calabar during a farewell ceremony held in honor of the pilgrims and officials at Hausa Quarters, prior to their departure to the Port Harcourt International Airport, Rivers State.
In his message delivered by the Senior Special Adviser to the Governor on Political Affairs, Hon. Dunamis Archibong, the Governor urged the pilgrims to conduct themselves responsibly and in accordance with the laws and customs of the holy land.
“The governor has asked me to remind you that you are not only representing your faith but also our dear state and country. You must therefore be law-abiding, disciplined, and avoid any action that could tarnish the image of Cross River State or Nigeria,” Archibong stated.
Also present at the farewell event were the Special Adviser to the Governor on Religious Matters, Apostle Frank Umoh, and several Imams from various mosques in Calabar.
The state officials prayed for a successful Hajj and safe return of the pilgrims, encouraging them to pray for peace, unity, and progress in Cross River State and Nigeria at large.