The Lagos State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board has commenced a sensitisation tour across Local Government Areas and Local Council Development Areas to mobilise support for the 2026 Israel and Jordan Christian pilgrimage exercise.
Eko Hot News reports that the outreach is aimed at appreciating the continued support of local government chairmen while encouraging greater participation and timely preparations for the forthcoming pilgrimage.
The sensitisation exercise is being led by the Secretary of the Board, Okudero Gbolabo Omoniyi, alongside senior officials of the agency.
The delegation has so far visited Yaba Local Government and Apapa Local Government as part of the first phase of the statewide engagement.
During the visit to Yaba, Dr. Gbolabo thanked the Executive Chairman, Adebayo Adefuye, for his continued support towards pilgrimage activities within the council area.
He encouraged the chairman to facilitate the timely payment of pilgrimage fares to enable the Board complete the required administrative processes ahead of the exercise.
According to the Board Secretary, early payment remains important for smooth planning, documentation and coordination of the pilgrimage programme.
Dr. Gbolabo also appealed to the Yaba chairman to encourage other local government leaders across Lagos State to invest in the spiritual development of their constituents.
He noted that spiritual renewal contributes positively to social harmony, responsible citizenship and peaceful communities.
The Board Secretary stressed that beneficiaries of government-supported pilgrimages should be individuals with genuine commitment to their faith and readiness to pray for the progress of the state and the nation.
Responding, Chairman Adebayo Adefuye reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote spiritual growth and moral development among residents.
He stated that his administration recognises the value of faith-based renewal programmes in strengthening families and communities.
Adefuye assured the Board of his continued cooperation in supporting eligible residents interested in participating in the pilgrimage.
The sensitisation team also visited Apapa Local Government, where the Executive Chairman, Idowu Adejumoke Senbanjo, received the delegation.
Senbanjo expressed her administration’s commitment to promoting the spiritual well-being of residents through fair and transparent support for intending pilgrims.
She said the local government would continue to encourage programmes that foster moral values, religious harmony and community development.
The Board explained that the sensitisation exercise forms part of preparations for a successful 2026 pilgrimage to Israel and Jordan.
Officials noted that engagement with local government authorities remains vital in ensuring wider participation and effective planning.
The Board also used the visits to discuss procedures, timelines and expectations relating to the pilgrimage exercise.
The delegation accompanying the Board Secretary included the Director of Operations, Mrs. Kehinde Omisorei, the Director of Public Affairs, Mrs. Ebunoluwa Olagoke, Mrs. Irene Olopade from the Operations Department and Mr. Adeseye Adedapo of the Administration and Human Resources Department.
Board officials reiterated that collaboration between the state government and local councils remains essential to achieving a well-organised pilgrimage programme.
They added that continuous engagement with stakeholders would help improve awareness and ensure intending pilgrims receive the necessary guidance throughout the process.
The Lagos State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board reaffirmed its commitment to promoting orderly, transparent and inclusive pilgrimage activities for eligible Christians across the state.
The agency expressed optimism that increased support from local governments would contribute to the successful organisation of the 2026 Israel and Jordan pilgrimage exercise.
The sensitisation tour is expected to continue across other LGAs and LCDAs as the Board intensifies preparations for the spiritual journey.
