Buhari, Lalong “confident” in new Pilgrims Commission Boss

Plateau State Governor, Simon Lalong says Rev. Dr. Yakubu Pam’s appointment as Executive Secretary, Nigerian Christians Pilgrims Commission is an opportunity to lead others to God.

“Nigerian Christians are looking up to you to give them the pilgrimage experience that brings them closer to God and boosts their faith,” said Lalong, Tuesday during Pam’s assumption of office in Abuja.

The appointment, Lalong said is a national assignment that requires the ES to be broad-minded, courageous and honest.

Pam was however appointed for his antecedents as “a man of God and committed peace maker”, the Governor said.

“The President has confidence in you, I have confidence in you and the people of Plateau State know your antecedents.

“This is the time for you to show the light in you and make the body of Christ proud. I appeal to you not to discriminate or be selective,” Lalong said.

President, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Rev. Dr. Samson Ayokunle represented by ECWA President Rev. Panya Baba said the appointment of Rev. Pam was “well deserved” as he has a “rich pedigree of promoting the gospel and promoting peaceful coexistence among different people and faiths.”

The Gbong Gwom Jos and Chairman, Plateau State Council of Traditional Rulers Jacob Gyang Buba, said the people of Plateau State and all Christians will support the ES with prayers and counsel to ensure he succeeds.

Rev. Pam said he was humbled by the show of love and encouragement by Nigerians particularly eminent sons and daughters of Plateau since his appointment.

President Muhammadu Buhari approved the appointment of Rev Yakubu Pam as the Executive Secretary of Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission (NCPC) last Saturday.

Until his appointment, Rev Pam was the Chairman of the Plateau State Christian Pilgrims Board.

Born on 20th February, 1960 in Gyel, Jos South LGA of Plateau State, Rev Pam holds a first degree in Christian Education.

As an ordained Minister, Rev Pam brings to the position more than 30 years of leadership experience in the Christian community, coupled with a deep understanding of promoting inter-religious harmony and conflict resolution in the northern parts of the country.

The cleric has held many leadership positions in the Church, including Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) of Northern Nigeria (which includes the 19 Northern States and Abuja) from 2016 to date, Vice President, Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, 2013 to date and District Superintendent, Jos mainland Assemblies of Nigeria, 2010 to date.

He also served as Chairman, Plateau State Inter-Religious Council; and Chairman, Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) Committee, Plateau State.

His appointment took effect from 26th June, 2020 for a period of five years.