Rev. Dr. Yakubu Pam, the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), has paid a visit to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the State House in Abuja.
The purpose of the visit was to seek the cooperation of the Federal Government in creating a conducive environment for pilgrimage activities.
During the visit, Rev. Yakubu Pam briefed Tinubu on the programs, activities, and mandate of the commission. He informed the president about the Commission’s pilgrimage activities and programs in Israel, Rome, Jordan, and Greece.
Rev. Pam also mentioned the Commission’s readiness to complete the 2023 Easter pilgrimage exercise to Israel and Jordan, which was temporarily put on hold for operational reasons. He informed Mr. President that around 1000 intending pilgrims were already present for the commencement of the Easter pilgrimage exercise, which is scheduled to begin on the 18th of this month with the airlift of pilgrims from Lagos State. This would be followed by pilgrims from Bayelsa, Imo, FCT, as well as self-sponsored pilgrims.
During the visit, Rev. Pam emphasized the efficacy of using pilgrimage as a tool for national prayer retreat in the holy land.
Rev. Pam further stated that in addition to its statutory mandate of supervising, coordinating, licensing, and regulating Christian pilgrimage activities in Nigeria, the Commission also aims to promote peace across the country. He emphasized that without peace, meaningful development is not possible.
The Executive Secretary took the opportunity to congratulate President Bola Tinubu on his successful inauguration as the 16th President of Nigeria. He also praised Mr. President for the support and cooperation the Commission has received over the years.
