Gombe — Governor Muhammad Danjuma Goje has solicited for prayers over the successful performance of the 2010 budget which is tailored towards the attainment of his developmental goals.

The Governor made this request at the farewell ceremony for intending Christian pilgrims from Gombe State. The budget was aimed at laying a solid framework for future generations in the state.

He also enjoined them to reciprocate government's gesture of sponsoring their pilgrimage by praying for the success of his administration and the forthcoming general elections.

He challenged them on being good ambassadors of the state at the holy land by adhering strictly to the guidelines on movements, obeying the instructions of tour guides and respect for the laws of the host country.

The governor whose speech was read by his Deputy and leader of the delegation, Dr. John Lia'zarus Yoriyo warned that on no account must pilgrims abscond or carry any hard drug or other prohibited items.

Pilgrimage according to him is a spiritual journey in search of God's blessings and not a business trip, tourism or adventure, after all.

Therefore he tasked them to see it as an opportunity to further strive to attain both spiritual and moral excellence as well as cultivate the right values, attitudes and the principles of morality, honesty and Godliness in their daily lives for the overall good of the society.

He recalled that the policy thrust of his administration since 2003 is to accommodate all religious interests and groups hence adequate funds are usually allocated on annual basis for the sponsorship of pilgrims to Saudi Arabia and Jerusalem.

Goje commended members of the Christian Pilgrims' Welfare Board for their commitment towards a hitch-free exercise.