Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, has advised Christians on Pilgrimage to the holy land of Jerusalem to be worthy and proud ambassadors of the State and pray for Nigeria, as they have been praying for Lagos.
Speaking through the Commissioner for Ministry of Home Affairs, Dr. AbdulHakeem AbdulLateef at the 2017 Inaugural Flight Ceremony to Israel organised in collaboration with the Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission, Ambode enjoined the pilgrims to be worthy representatives of themselves, their families, the State and Nigeria as a whole.
He admonished them to exhibit such values by not eloping, by showing best attitude and exhibiting high integrity and diligence, as well as by transmitting correct spiritual values and projecting a positive image.
He said, “with prayers by Christians and Muslims, as well as people of other faiths, Lagos is working, and with more of it, Nigeria will also work.”
Governor Ambode described pilgrimage as a spiritual journey that provides the opportunity to witness landmarks and places that have been revealed in the Holy Books, adding that “it is a period of self-denial when devotees abandon and depart from all worldly possessions - wealth, home, family, work and other material possessions to seek the face of the Lord”.
He encouraged pilgrims to ensure they become better citizens after the journey and return to contribute their quota to the development and proper management of infrastructure being put in place by the State for the benefit of its citizens.
Also speaking at the event, Executive Secretary, Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Council, Rev. Tom Ujah said, “Jesus Christ is the greatest gift to the humanity; thus, intending pilgrims must find Jesus in greater depth and allow Him to change their lives forever for the better”.
He said pilgrims must study their bibles always and promised that in the coming year all intending pilgrims would be given a “proper bible” for comprehensive enlightenment.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs, Mrs. Toyin Awoseyi, on her part congratulated the intending pilgrims, saying it was God’s favour to be part of the journey.
She charged them to exhibit high standards and project expected values and conduct which exemplify excellence for which Lagos State is noted.Among participants at the ceremony were the Y2017 Christian pilgrims from Lagos State, Executive Secretaries of Pilgrims Councils from other States, Officiating Ministers and other dignitaries.
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