The Lagos State Government has urged intending Christian pilgrims to view the pilgrimage exercise as a period of spiritual rejuvenation and renewed faith.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs, Mr. Adewunmi Ogunsanya, gave the charge at a one-day seminar for intending pilgrims and operational staff organised by the Lagos State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board (LSCPWB).
Mr. Ogunsanya explained that the seminar was designed to educate and properly guide pilgrims in preparation for the spiritual journey.
He further urged them to conduct themselves as worthy ambassadors of Lagos State and Nigeria, stressing that unity and discipline were essential for a successful pilgrimage.
Also speaking, the Board Secretary, Dr. Omoniyi Okudero, advised the pilgrims to obey the laws of the Holy Lands, adhere strictly to instructions from tour guides, and maintain exemplary conduct throughout the exercise.
Dr. Okudero commended the Lagos State Government for providing a structured platform to ensure a smooth and well-coordinated pilgrimage, noting that the journey would be spiritually demanding.
He encouraged the pilgrims to remain prayerful and seek a deeper encounter with God to strengthen their faith in Christ.
Meanwhile, the first batch of intending pilgrims is scheduled to be airlifted to Israel and Jordan on January 31, while the second batch will depart in February.
The total number of intending pilgrims is put at four hundred.
Reporting by Frank Olororunsola