Lagos State Government Outlines Strict Guidelines for Christian Pilgrims to Israel and Jordan
The Lagos State government has issued comprehensive and strict guidelines for Christian pilgrims embarking on journeys to Israel and Jordan, urging them to maintain spiritual focus and uphold discipline throughout their pilgrimage. According to official statements, the pilgrimage to holy lands should not be viewed as a leisure period but rather as a sacred time to renew faith and draw closer to God.
Orientation Seminar Prepares Pilgrims for Spiritual Journey
The government delivered this charge during a one-day orientation seminar held at the Chapel of Christ the Light in Alausa, Ikeja. This event was organized ahead of the airlifting of the 2025 Christian pilgrims, with the first batch scheduled to depart on January 31, 2026, and the second batch following in February.
Speaking at the seminar, the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Home Affairs, Adewunmi Ogunsanya, emphasized that the orientation was designed to properly prepare intending pilgrims for their spiritual journey. It aimed to educate them on their responsibilities both before and during the pilgrimage.
Emphasis on Decorum and National Representation
Ogunsanya urged the pilgrims to conduct themselves with decorum and integrity, highlighting that they would be representing not only Lagos State but Nigeria as a whole. He stressed that unity, cooperation, and obedience to laid-down rules are essential for a successful pilgrimage to the holy lands.
"Pilgrims must see themselves as ambassadors of the state and the country. Your conduct abroad reflects on all of us, and unity among pilgrims is key to achieving the spiritual purpose of this journey," he added.
Focus on Spiritual Exercise and Avoiding Distractions
Also speaking at the event, the Board Secretary, Gbolabo Okudero, reinforced that the pilgrimage is strictly a spiritual exercise. He cautioned pilgrims against distractions that could undermine the essence of the religious expedition.
"You must be intentional to avoid distractions," Okudero said. He advised pilgrims to dress modestly, eat moderately, remain with their assigned groups, obey the laws of the host countries, follow the instructions of tour guides, and maintain good conduct throughout the pilgrimage. He added that prayer should remain the central focus of the journey.
Commendation for Government Support
Okudero commended Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his continued support of the pilgrimage programme, describing the state government's efforts as instrumental in creating a well-structured and seamless pilgrimage process.
Comprehensive Briefings for Operational Staff
The seminar also featured detailed briefings for operational staff, including clerics, media personnel, medical officers, and administrative teams. These individuals were taken through their specific roles and responsibilities to ensure a smooth and hitch-free exercise, further underscoring the government's commitment to a successful pilgrimage experience.
