By Stella Enenche, Abuja
The Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission ( NCPC) has said it would begin the 2024 Easter pilgrimage exercise in June.
The Executive Secretary, Bishop Stephen Adegbite announced this in a statement made available by the commission’s Head of Media and Public Relations, Celestine Toruka on Tuesday in Abuja.
Adegbite during a zoom meeting with the Conference of States, which comprises the Chairmen and Secretaries of the States Christian Pilgrims Welfare Boards, including Federal Capital Territory (FCT), explained that the flag-off of the Easter pilgrimage would certainly be in June.
According to him, “there must be a flag off in June,” he said.
He said, the flag-off date for the Easter pilgrimage would be officially announced by next week after the Commission’s board meeting must have been held.
The Executive Secretary further stated that the meeting was convened to enable the Commission and the Conference of States strategize and brainstorm on how to move the Christian pilgrimage forward.
He noted that from his recent working visit to Israel and Jordan , he could conveniently assure all the stakeholders that Israel is safe for pilgrims to visit, stating that ” 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 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.
He maintained 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.
His words, ” we are starting a new relationship with all our Embassies abroad”.
The NCPC Scribe commended the Conference of States for their cooperation and support since his assumption of office.
According to him, “you are strong stakeholders with NCPC”. He added, ” 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.
He pledged the unwavering support of his members on his leadership.
He further urged the 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 virtually.
