The Lagos State Government has unveiled plans to significantly increase the number of Christian pilgrims travelling to Israel and other holy destinations, following the successful completion of its 2025 pilgrimage exercise.
The Board Secretary of the Lagos State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board, Dr. Gbolabo Okudero, disclosed this on Tuesday while reflecting on his first year in office, noting that the state is targeting a sharp rise in participation for the 2026 pilgrimage.
According to him, the move is driven by growing awareness and improved coordination with the Nigeria Christian Pilgrim Commission, which oversees pilgrimage activities nationwide.
He said over 400 Lagos pilgrims successfully travelled to the Holy Land in two batches between January and February 2026, describing the exercise as a major milestone for the Board.
“The 2025 pilgrimage exercise remains our crowning achievement so far. We had two batches of over 200 pilgrims each, and all of them returned safely and joyfully,” he said.
Okudero explained that the state government would build on the success by intensifying sensitisation efforts across churches, media platforms, government institutions, and grassroots communities to attract more intending pilgrims.
He noted that one of the major challenges facing the programme had been limited public awareness, adding that the Board has now adopted an aggressive outreach strategy to bridge the gap.
“We are no longer waiting for people to come to us. We are taking the message directly to churches, radio stations, and local governments across Lagos,” he said.
As part of preparations for the expansion, the Board Secretary noted that the agency management has strengthened its screening and orientation processes to ensure the safety and spiritual readiness of pilgrims.
He explained that intending pilgrims undergo a two-stage administrative and medical screening process, alongside a one-day orientation seminar and a pre-departure service of dedication.
“These measures are designed to ensure that every pilgrim is fully prepared — physically, administratively and spiritually — before departure,” he added.
Okudero also highlighted the importance of collaboration with the NCPC, noting that improved federal-state synergy contributed to the seamless execution of the 2025 exercise.
He said the Board had also expanded its engagement with key stakeholders, including churches of various denominations, Ministries, Departments and Agencies, and all 57 Local Government and Local Council Development Areas in the state.
“We addressed all council chairmen at the Conference 57 meeting, which gave us unprecedented access to grassroots structures across Lagos,” he said.
Looking ahead, he disclosed that the screening and registration process for the 2026 pilgrimage would commence soon, urging interested Christians in the state to begin early registration.
“The opportunity is open, and we encourage Lagos Christians not to delay. The process is structured, transparent and accessible,” Okudero said.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability, stressing that all pilgrimage activities are conducted under strict regulatory guidelines in partnership with the NCPC.
Okudero added that beyond logistics, the Board remains focused on promoting spiritual growth and unity among Christian communities in the state.
“Pilgrimage is not just travel; it is a spiritual investment. Our goal is to ensure that every pilgrim returns transformed,” he said.
