NCPC urges sustained sensitisation to maximise gains of pilgrimage

By Longdi Manbis

The Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), has advocated sustained sensitisation on Christian pilgrimage to boost participation and maximise spiritual gains from the exercise.

Mr Simon Dolly, NCPC commissioner for North-Central, made the call on Thursday in Jos when he paid a courtesy visit to the Plateau State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board.

Dolly said that effective sensitisation would help correct the notion that pilgrimage was merely for tourism.

He urged the Board to organise periodic sensitisation exercises for intending pilgrims to strengthen their faith in the exercise.

He also stressed the need for Churches and traditional leaders in Plateau to collaborate with the Board to sensitise Christians on the relevance of pilgrimage.

“Pilgrimage is not a tourist activity; it is a sacred exercise to be fulfilled as a Christian. The Board should collaborate with Church leaders and well-meaning individuals to get more participants.

“The relevance of pilgrimage as an exercise is captured in the Bible. We are encouraged to go there and pray for peace in our land,” he said.

The NCPC Commissioner urged Plateau pilgrims to consider self-sponsorship and reduce reliance on government funding.

“Government alone cannot sponsor every individual. You should encourage individuals with capacity, and Churches, to sponsor spiritually-inclined Christians, who are not financially instant to embark on the exercise,” Dolly added.

Responding, Rev. Wanson Yusufu, Executive Secretary of the Board, promised stronger commitment to sensitising the public on pilgrimage.

Yusufu commended the NCPC for the steady support for the Board, saying that such support was responsible for the success it had recorded over the years.  e

He reaffirmed his commitment to addressing gaps identified by the NCPC, and assured his guests that everything was being put in place toward a successful pilgrimage this year and beyond.