Amid Challenges, Bishop Adegbite Reaffirms Nigeria’s Resilience, Hope in God

By Chinedu Echianu

The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), Bishop Stephen Adegbite, has reaffirmed that Nigeria’s future and hope rest firmly in God, despite the nation’s current socio-economic and security challenges.

In a statement, NCPC Spokesman Celestine Toruka, says Bishop Adegbite made the declaration during the Conference of States meeting, comprising Chairmen and Executive Secretaries of State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Boards, including the FCT, held at the NCPC Corporate Headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday.

Addressing the gathering, the NCPC boss acknowledged the prevailing difficulties facing the country but maintained that no adversity can defeat a nation anchored in faith and unity.

He condemned efforts by some groups to incite religious violence, stressing that Nigeria would never support any form of genocide. “Nigeria will not support any form of genocide. We acknowledge the efforts of our government in combating terrorism and have faith that our nation will overcome, as the President is on the right track,” he said.

Bishop Adegbite urged stakeholders to continue working harmoniously and to remain steadfast in supporting government initiatives aimed at national renewal, peace, and unity.

“We know the challenges before us, but we must stand together as one. Nigeria will overcome as long as we remain united and prayerful. Our strength lies in our collective faith,” he stated.

The Executive Secretary also lauded the success of the 2025 Easter Pilgrimage, describing it as a testament to Nigeria’s spiritual resilience and divine favor despite recent events in Israel. He expressed gratitude to state governments for their active sponsorship and announced that the Commission would honor outstanding states — including Imo, Plateau, Adamawa, Bauchi, and Delta — for their commitment to the pilgrimage initiative.

Reiterating NCPC’s resolve to strengthen partnerships, promote unity, and uphold Nigeria’s image, Bishop Adegbite remarked: “A tree cannot make a forest. Together, we will continue to lift our nation in prayer and in action until Nigeria takes her rightful place among the comity of nations.”

Earlier, the Chairman of the Conference of States, Bishop David Moradeyo, offered prayers for the continued success of Bishop Adegbite’s administration and congratulated him on his recent appointment as Chaplain of the State House Chapel, Abuja.

Bishop Moradeyo commended the NCPC boss for his visionary leadership and for successfully steering the Commission through global challenges. He also appealed to the Executive Secretary to visit states facing difficulties in sponsoring pilgrims, in order to encourage greater participation in future pilgrimage exercises.