The Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission (NCPC) has announced that it will begin the airlift of intending pilgrims to the Holy Land on December 22, 2024. This announcement was made by the Executive Secretary of the commission, Bishop Stephen Adegbite, during a meeting held in Abuja with the Conference of States, which consists of Chairmen and Secretaries from various Christian Pilgrims Welfare Boards across the country, as well as representatives from the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The statement, signed by Celestine Toruka, the Deputy Director and Head of Media and Public Relations, emphasizes the importance of this pilgrimage and the collaborative effort required to successfully facilitate it.
During the meeting, Bishop Adegbite urged the members of the Conference of States to seek divine guidance in their responsibilities and prioritize serving the pilgrims effectively. He emphasized the significance of integrity in the commission’s operations by stressing a zero-tolerance policy for abscondment of pilgrims and acts of corruption. Such a stance reflects the commission’s commitment to ensuring a transparent and accountable pilgrimage process, thereby fostering trust among intending pilgrims and stakeholders alike. Adegbite also acknowledged the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, highlighting efforts to navigate the nation through its challenges and reaffirming Nigeria’s progress toward a hopeful future.
The Chairman of the Conference of States, Bishop David Moradeyo, expressed gratitude to Bishop Adegbite for his leadership and for convening the meeting, which he stated would facilitate meaningful discussions regarding the upcoming pilgrimage. He emphasized the importance of collaboration among the various states’ boards in preparing for the airlift and ensuring that all logistical aspects are addressed effectively. Moradeyo’s acknowledgment reflects a collective recognition of the need for teamwork in the planning process, which will ultimately benefit the pilgrim experience.
In addition to logistics, the conference included a spiritual component, with Moradeyo declaring that members would enter a period of fasting and prayer to support the commission’s efforts in organizing a smooth pilgrimage operation. This call to prayer underscores the integral role of faith in the activities of the NCPC and its stakeholders, reinforcing the belief that divine assistance is key in facilitating successful pilgrimages. The emphasis on spiritual preparation indicates that the commission values not only the physical aspects of the pilgrimage but also its religious significance to the intended pilgrims.
Moreover, the NCPC is focused on maintaining a robust framework that promotes both efficiency and a strong ethical foundation within the organization. By addressing potential issues such as corruption and ensuring that pilgrims return to Nigeria as planned, the commission aims to cultivate an environment of trust and reliability among its constituents. The commitment to a corruption-free process aligns with broader national reforms and reflects the growing demand for accountability within public service sectors.
Looking ahead to the December airlift, the NCPC and the Conference of States are preparing to engage in thorough discussions and adequate planning to ensure a seamless pilgrimage experience. The collaborative approach encouraged by the leadership reflects a proactive stance toward addressing any challenges that may arise during the pilgrimage period. The meeting serves as a foundational step in enhancing the overall pilgrimage process, aligning the administrative, logistical, and spiritual efforts to provide the best experience for Nigerian pilgrims undertaking this significant religious journey.
