Chidimma Uchegbu – Abuja
The Executive Secretary Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), Bishop Stephen Adegbite, has said that screening of all intending pilgrims for pilgrimage to the holy land is sacrosanct.
He made this disclosure in Lagos on Friday, 19th April, 2024 during a courtesy visit to the Consul General of Italy in Lagos, Mr Ugo Boni.
He hinted that screening of intending pilgrims is now a government project, hence professionals who have been well trained in the art of screening are deeply involved to avoid loopholes and to ensure that all pilgrims return to Nigeria after the spiritual exercise.
He noted that the Commission had carried out sweeping reforms in the screening process. He added,” we have as well engaged and reassigned portfolios to qualify personnel”.
The NCPC Boss further disclosed that the Commission had ensured that the officers involved in screening are often trained to achieve the expected goal.
He revealed that the Commission is collaborating with the Ground Handlers to provide extra personnel for pilgrims while in the holy land.
He assured the envoy that under his leadership there would be zero tolerance for abscondment of pilgrims during Pilgrimage.
The NCPC Scribe sought the cooperation of the Consul General in the area of visa validity and indiscriminate visa denials.
Te commended the Italian government and the Vatican for the robust bilateral relationships that have existed between them and the government of Nigeria in the area of Pilgrimage.
Responding, the Consul General of Italy in Lagos, Mr Ugo Boni thanked the NCPC boss for his visit. He also congratulated him for his well deserved appointment by the President of Nigeria.
He maintained that Nigeria and Italy have enjoyed good bilateral relationships over the years even beyond pilgrimage.
He assured the Executive Secretary that he would look into all the concerns raised with a view to addressing them without any encumbrances.
