The Delta State Government has sanctioned a budget exceeding N2 billion to sponsor Christian pilgrims to Israel and Jordan for the 2026 exercise. Erijo Etacherure, the State Commissioner for the Bureau of Special Duties, disclosed this development in Asaba while meeting with Dr Latimore Oghenesivbe, the Head of Media for the pilgrimage.
What are the key details of the screening exercise?
According to the commissioner, the Nigeria Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC)—the federal agency responsible for coordinating Christian pilgrimages in Nigeria—will initiate the screening of prospective participants on November 11. The evaluation process will take place at the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Secretariat located in Asaba, the state capital.
Applicants are mandated to submit their completed registration forms on or before November 9 to the Executive Secretary of the Delta State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board. Etacherure emphasized that late submissions will not be entertained at the venue.
"Anybody who fails to meet the deadline will not be attended to at the screening venue. All intending pilgrims should come with a valid ECOWAS international passport," Etacherure stated.
Who is eligible to participate?
While the state government provides the financial backing, the final determination of qualified candidates rests with the NCPC. Furthermore, the commissioner issued a strict warning regarding repeat beneficiaries, stating that anyone who has previously enjoyed a state-sponsored pilgrimage to either Israel or Jordan is barred from applying and will be automatically disqualified.
This approval comes amidst broader discussions regarding public expenditure and economic challenges faced by citizens across the country, though state officials maintain that statutory obligations toward religious exercises will be maintained according to schedule.