By Ebriku John Friday
The Chairman of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission, Rev Yomi Kasali has said that states should be encouraged to sponsor Pilgrimage.
He disclosed this recently in Bethlehem during the ongoing Christian Pilgrimage in Israel and Jordan in a statement by Celestine Toruka, Head, Media and Public Relations and made available to journalists.
He explained that though some may argue that states should not be involved in Pilgrimage sponsorship, but he posited that the amount of resources being deployed in Pilgrimage is too insignificant considering the spiritual importance of Pilgrimage in national development.
Rev Kasali explained that Pilgrimage provides an opportunity for the less privileged Nigerians to enjoy the dividends of democracy especially those who treasure their faith.
He described the ongoing Christian Pilgrimage in Israel and Jordan as “wonderful, great and quiet refreshing”.
He advised pilgrims to use this Pilgrimage exercise to reflect on national issues.
He further admonished them to ensure they make Nigeria proud; and not to use Pilgrimage as an outlet to abscond.
The Chairman is the leader of the 8th batch of Christian pilgrims currently in Israel and Jordan, made up of Yobe and Borno pilgrims, including pilgrims who are on consular assignment.