The National Orientation Agency (NOA), Kwara Directorate, has urged intending Christian pilgrims to uphold discipline, integrity and responsible citizenship during the 2025 Holy Pilgrimage.

The agency’s state director, Abdulganiy Dare, gave the admonition on Wednesday at a pilgrimage seminar organised by the Kwara State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board.

Represented by Joseph Inawole, Mr Dare said pilgrimage goes beyond prayers and spiritual devotion, describing it as a test of character and national responsibility.

“You are representing your families, churches, Kwara, Nigeria and the Christian faith in your host countries,” he told the pilgrims.

Mr Dare said the National Values Charter should guide pilgrims’ conduct, stressing discipline, integrity, respect for authority, tolerance, patriotism and social harmony.

“These values must guide your actions before, during and after the pilgrimage,” he said.

He warned against absconding, overstaying and disobedience, saying such acts damage Nigeria’s image and future pilgrimage arrangements.

Kwara Deputy Governor, Kayode Alabi, urged the pilgrims to be good ambassadors and comport themselves with decorum.

Similarly, the board chairman, Timothy Opoola, commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq and urged pilgrims to follow guidelines and shun abscondment. 

(NAN)