Chidimma Uchegbu -Abuja
THE Executive Secretary Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), Bishop Stephen Adegbite, has said that the Commission would commence this year’s Easter pilgrimage exercise in June.
He disclosed this in Abuja on Monday, during a zoom meeting with the Conference of States, comprising the Chairmen and Secretaries of the States Christian Pilgrims Welfare Boards, including FCT.
Bishop Adegbite 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 disclosed that 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 NCPC helmsman 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 stating that “before we take people out of Nigeria, we must guarantee their safety”.
Adegbite further said that ” srael is safe, we can begin our pilgrimage to Israel, Jordan, Rome and Greece.”
He further expatiated 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 as a new administration which believes firmly in due process, the Commission has therefore 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 of 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.
