Abia state screening of the intending pilgrims for 2025 pilgrimage to the Holy Land has been flagged off with a call to successful pilgrims to be good ambassadors of the state.
Flagging off the event, the Executive Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti emphasized the need for the intending pilgrims to shun any behavior capable of bringing shame to the state.
The Governor, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Kenneth Kalu, regretted that Abians have not taken part in pilgrimage for the past few years, and explained that the decision for Abians to be part of this year’s pilgrimage is as a result of the passion and sense of value the Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has placed on the Holy trip.
Dr. Alex Otti, who attributed the limited number of pilgrims from the state to the Holy Land to several competing needs, enjoined the pilgrims to see themselves as key players who, through their efforts and contributions, will assist in rebuilding the state.
Speaking earlier, the Chairman, Pilgrim Board, Apostle Emmanuel Agomuo, who made it clear that filling the form is not a guarantee for taking part in the pilgrimage, pointed out that only those who are successful during the screening will be selected for the pilgrimage while enjoining them to be of good behavior while in the Holy Land.
In a vote of thanks, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Religious Matters, Apostle K. C. Wiper, appreciated the Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, for approving this year’s pilgrimage while thanking the SSG, Prof. Kenneth Kalu, for his effort in the whole process.
