NCPC Secretary Bishop Stephen Adegbite stresses that pilgrimage is spiritual rejuvenation, not tourism, as Ebonyi pilgrims depart for Israel and Jordan

The **Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), Bishop Stephen Adegbite**, has emphasised that **pilgrimage is a spiritual exercise, not a form of tourism**.

He made this statement during the airlifting of the **8th batch of Christian pilgrims from Ebonyi State** to Israel and Jordan at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu.

Speaking through **Clement Nweke**, Federal Commissioner representing the South East on the NCPC Board, Adegbite assured the pilgrims that they would have the opportunity to visit significant **holy sites in Israel and Jordan**. He expressed confidence that they would return spiritually fulfilled.

“Pilgrimage is not tourism, but a spiritual rejuvenation. You are not going for tourism, but for spiritual rejuvenation,” he reiterated.

He also commended **Governor Francis Nwifuru** for sponsoring over **300 Christian pilgrims** from Ebonyi State, a move he described as a commitment to faith and spiritual growth.

Adegbite urged the pilgrims to **pray fervently** in the Holy Land and return with **outstanding testimonies**.

He also reminded them of **NCPC’s zero-tolerance policy on abscondment**, warning that any defaulter would be identified and dealt with accordingly.

“Ebonyi has never had any issue of abscondment, and we believe this batch will maintain that record,” he added.

Rev. Fr. **Godwin Uguru**, Chairman of the **Ebonyi State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board**, encouraged the pilgrims to **pray for the state** during their journey.

He assured them that the governor had taken all necessary measures to ensure a **hitch-free pilgrimage**.

He concluded with a prayer for **safe travels and a successful spiritual experience**, hoping the pilgrims would **depart and return in peace**.