The Lagos State Pilgrims Welfare Board on Thursday commenced the airlift of 250 Christian Pilgrims to the Kingdom of Jordan.
The State’s Pilgrims Welfare Board charged the pilgrims to be good ambassadors of the state and country while in Jordan.
Before the commencement of the airlifting, the Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Christian Pilgrims Commission (NCPC), Rev. Yakubu Pam told the pilgrims that the pilgrimage to Jordan is not an alternative to Jerusalem.
On the contrary, he said it is an opportunity to explore Jordan as part of the holy sites mentioned in the Bible.
Pam spoke at a ceremony at Christ the Light Chapel, Alausa, Ikeja.
According to Rev. Pam: “Jordan is not a replacement for Jerusalem as it is just like going to Greece or Rome for pilgrimage.
“ This is part of the mandate of NCPC which states that Israel and other holy lands as stated in the bible can be visited for pilgrimage”.
He implored the pilgrims to obey the instructions of their tour guide during pilgrimage exercise.
He also urged them to note that pilgrimage is not for individual benefits alone but to the benefits of the country by praying and advising governments about the things explored in Jordan.
The executive secretary also used the opportunity to charge the pilgrims to observe all COVID-19 protocols and obey spiritual authority.
He gave them the assurance that their feeding, accommodation and security have been well taken care of.
He, however, warned those with the mindset of using the pilgrimage exercise to abscond the country to reconsider the plan as adequate check has been put in place to prevent such act.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Christian Religion, Rev. Olubukola Adeleke urged the pilgrims to use the opportunity of the exercise to pray for Lagos State and by extension Nigeria while in the holy land of Jordan.
He urged them to see the pilgrimage as a spiritual exercise and not for sightseeing alone.
He appealed to participants to remain good ambassadors of Lagos State and Nigeria as a whole.
On her part, the Executive Secretary of LSCPWB, Mrs. Florence Yetunde Gbafe commended the State Government for providing the platform for a seamless journey.
She informed the 250 Pilgrims that the journey will be energy-sapping.
Thus, they should consult medical personnel on the team on any personal health issues.
A Board member of the Lagos State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board (LSCPWB), Sir Folusho Adekoya in his remarks enjoined the pilgrims to be very prayerful in order to have an encounter with the Lord and solidify their faith in Christ.
