Uzodimma Charges Imo Pilgrims to be Ambassadors of State, Nigeria

By Chinedu Echianu

Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has urged intending Christian pilgrims to conduct themselves as worthy ambassadors of the state and Nigeria during their journey to the Holy Land.

Speaking at the 2025 orientation programme held at the Government House Chapel, Owerri, on Friday, the Governor, represented by his deputy, Dr. Chinyere Ekomaru, tasked the pilgrims to uphold Christian values and strictly obey guidelines from the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC) officials.

Uzodimma stressed the need for discipline and attentiveness during the exercise, warning against actions that could tarnish Nigeria’s image.

In her remarks, Mrs. Nwamaka Okpara, South East Zonal Coordinator of NCPC, highlighted that pilgrimage is primarily for spiritual renewal and urged participants to remain focused on its purpose.

Chairman of the Imo State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board, Rev. Fr. Gilbert Alaribe, commended the Governor for his consistent sponsorship of over 1,000 pilgrims yearly, noting that 2025 will mark the first direct airlift from Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport to the Holy Land on September 14.

Board Secretary, Rev. Canon Kelechi Ejingini, also lauded the collaboration between the NCPC and the Imo Pilgrims Welfare Board, praising the Executive Secretary, Bishop Prof. Stephen Adegbite, for his leadership.

The delayed 2025 Easter Pilgrimage, themed “Pilgrimage of Renewed Hope for Total Restoration,” will be officially flagged off in Owerri on September 14.