By Joyce Remi-Babayeju
THE Executive Secretary Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission, NCPC, Bishop Stephen Adegbite has said that the 2024 Easter Pilgrimage exercise will commence June.
Bishop Adegbite disclosed this in Abuja on Monday, 29th April,, 2024 during a zoom conference meeting with States Chairmen and Secretaries of the States Christian Pilgrims Welfare Boards, including the Federal Capital Territory, FCT.
He explained that the flag off of the Easter pilgrimage would certainly be in June.
According to him, the flag off date for the Easter pilgrimage would be officially announced by next week after the Commission’s board meeting.
He explained stated that the Zoom meeting state Commissions was to strategize and brainstorm on how to move the Christian pilgrimage forward.
He stated that from his recent working visit to Israel and Jordan , he could conveniently assure all the stakeholders that Israel is safe for pilgrims visit.
” Before we take people out of Nigeria, we must guarantee their safety.”
He further affirmed, ” Israel is safe, we can begin our pilgrimage to Israel, Jordan , Rome and Greece.”
He further explained that the June commencement date for the Easter pilgrimage is in line with the Commission’s calendar of activities which runs from April to July and November to February for the general pilgrimage exercise.
Bishop Adegbite noted that the new administration believes firmly in due process, adding that the Commission has ensured that all the procurement process beginning with the expression of interest to the financial bid opening had been concluded to pave way for the smooth take off of the Easter pilgrimage exercise.
The NCPC boss hinted that henceforth the Commission would establish a robust relationship with the Embassies in all our Pilgrimage destination nations.
He said, ” we are starting a new relationship with all our Embassies abroad.”
The NCPC Scribe commended the State Commissions for their cooperation and support since his assumption of office.
You are strong stakeholders with NCPC, together we are moving NCPC forward.”
Speaking, the Acting Chairman Conference of States who doubles as the Executive Chairman Oyo State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board, Bishop Moradayo Emmanuel appreciated the Executive Secretary for his efforts to change the face of christian pilgrimage in Nigeria.
He further applauded him for his recent successful working visit to Israel and Jordan and pledged the unwavering support of his members on his leadership.
He further urged members of the Conference of States who are participating in the Easter pilgrimage exercise to expedite action on their payment to NCPC.
About 18 members of the Conference of States joined the virtual meeting.
