By Joyce Remi-Babayeju
The Executive Secretary
of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission, NCPC, Bishop Stephen Adegbite has enjoined intending Pilgrims from Delta State to be good Ambassadors of Nigeria in the Holy Land of Israel and Jordan.
Adegbite, represented by the South South Zonal Coordinator of NCPC, Nkaiso Edemenang gave this charge at the screening exercise of the 2024 Main Pilgrimage exercise to the Holy Land in Asaba, the state capital.
He urged them to intentionally protect the image of their state and Nigeria by not attempting to abscond in the course of the pilgrimage exercise.
Adegbite pledged that the Commission was keen in ensuring a successful pilgrimage exercise that will bring honour to the state and nation at large.
He therefore advised the intending Pilgrims to endeavor to provide accurate information in the course of the screening.
He disclosed that the Commission was in touch with the Nigeria Embassy in the State of Israel and working with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to ensure the safety of all pilgrims.
On his part the Federal Commissioner NCPC, South South, Chief Prince Weli Wosu, said the Pilgrim’s journey to the Holy Land was not a business trip but a spiritual exercise, hence the need for them to be prepared to commit the state and the country to God Almighty.
Wosu also advised them to be of good character and not bring shame upon the state, adding that there are penalties for whoever attempts to go against the rules.
Delta State governor, Sheriff Oborevwori also charged intending pilgrims of the state for the 2024 Main Pilgrimage exercise to the Holy Land to be good representatives of the state.
Gov. Oborevwori represented by the Commissioner of the Bureau for Special Duties, Hon. Etagherure Terry urged all intending Pilgrims to cease the opportunity to pray for the state, and the nation.
He advised persons with health issues to have a rethink by not embarking on the journey.
Speaking on the criteria for the successful screening, the state Executive Secretary, Rev. Fr. Christopher Ekabo, said is strict medical checkups, genuine international passports amongst others.
