Lagos Christian Pilgrims Return Safely After Successful Holy Land Journey

Olayemi Akinwunmi

The first batch of Lagos State Christian pilgrims arrived safely in Lagos on January 1, 2025, following a successful pilgrimage to Israel and Jordan. The pilgrims, who traveled aboard a chartered Atlas Jet, were received by Rt. Rev Stephen Adegbite, Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC).

Adegbite expressed his joy at the success of the exercise, thanking the Jordanian authority for facilitating smooth border transfers between Jordan and Israel. He also appreciated the support of Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Lagos State Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu.

The pilgrims, who visited historic sites in Israel and Jordan, reported having a spiritually fulfilling and enriching experience. Mrs. Adeola Aina, Director of Admin and Human Resources, Lagos State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board, described the experience as “worthwhile” and encouraged others to participate in future pilgrimages.

Mrs. Ebunoluwa Adeola Olagoke, Head of the Public Affairs Unit of the Board, noted that the pilgrimage was well-organized, and urged others to take advantage of the opportunity.

The Board Secretary, Mrs. Yetunde Gbafe, announced that the second batch of Lagos pilgrims would depart for the Holy Land soon. She thanked the Nigerian and Jordanian governments for their support and acknowledged improvements at the Jordan-Israel border.

According to her, the successful pilgrimage exercise is a testament to the Lagos State Government’s commitment to supporting Christian pilgrims. With the second batch of pilgrims set to depart soon, many more Lagosians will have the opportunity to experience the spiritual rejuvenation of visiting the Holy Land.