Cletus Gotan, chairman, Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), has emphasised the need for unity in Nigeria, stressing that it is crucial to build a strong and virile nation.

Mr Gotan spoke in Abuja at a meeting with the NCPC board, management, state pilgrimage leaders, and Christian pilgrimage operators in Nazareth, Israel.

“We must all champion the cause of unity. We cannot get anywhere without it,” he stated.

Mr Goran referred to John 17: 20-21, where Jesus emphasised unity and encouraged Christian leaders to preach a similar message to the faithful.

He expressed optimism that God would grant the NCPC board the grace to lead excellently, emphasising the importance of selflessness.

“In NCPC, you and I have the responsibility to worship together so that truth and love should continue to bind us together,” he said.

He affirmed that Christianity had a strong tradition of pilgrimage and highlighted the importance of reconnecting with God and learning about the history of Christianity.

The Nigerian ambassador to Israel, Agatha Afoekelu, in a remark, acknowledged the significance of pilgrimage in Christianity and commended the leadership of Stephen Adegbite, NCPC’s executive secretary.

She emphasised the need for pilgrims to conduct themselves properly and avoid negative tendencies.

According to her, the Nigerian embassy is working closely with Israel’s Ministry of Interior to ensure the comfort and security of Nigerian pilgrims.

In his remarks, Mr Adegbite expressed gratitude for the retreat and highlighted the transformation in NCPC’s image since he was appointed.

“We shall strive to meet everyone’s expectations. We are one family, and we will leave a remarkable mark behind,” Mr Adegbite said. 

(NAN)