The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission, Bishop Stephen Adegbite, has called on intending pilgrims to contribute positively toward nation-building.
Speaking on Thursday during the departure of the 12th batch of Christian pilgrims to Israel and Jordan, he emphasized the importance of conducting themselves with dignity and representing Nigeria honorably.
The departure took place in Abuja and Lagos, with the group comprising mainly pilgrims from Ogun State alongside consular officers.
In a statement issued by NCPC’s Deputy Director and Head of Media and Public Relations, Mr. Celestine Toruka, Adegbite urged the pilgrims to embrace the sacredness of their journey.
“Pilgrimage is a sacred journey, and we must approach it with reverence and respect,” he stated.
He also warned against any actions that could damage Nigeria’s reputation abroad, stressing the commission’s strict stance against abscondment.
“I urge you all to shun any negative tendencies that might tarnish the image of Nigeria in the holy land,” he cautioned.
Reaffirming his belief in the country’s potential, Adegbite described Nigeria as “the best nation on earth” and encouraged the pilgrims to support the government’s development initiatives.
“I encourage you all to pray for the success of the present administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda,” he added.
The NCPC boss further urged them to embrace the commission’s 2024 Main Pilgrimage theme, “Pilgrimage of Renewed Hope for Total Restoration.”
