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**.

Following a fatal elephant encounter at Kruger National Park, SANParks urges visitors to prioritise safety and stay in vehicles during wildlife tours

South African National Parks (SANParks) has reiterated its safety guidelines following a tragic incident at Kruger National Park, where a tourist lost their life during an encounter with an elephant.

The incident occurred at Malelane Gate, highlighting the critical need for visitors to stay in their vehicles while observing wildlife.

According to reports, the fatality occurred when a tourist exited their vehicle and was charged by an elephant.

SANParks officials have expressed their condolences and emphasised the importance of adhering to safety rules designed to protect both visitors and wildlife.

This tragedy echoes a similar incident last July when a Spanish tourist at Pilanesberg National Park was fatally attacked after leaving their vehicle to photograph an elephant herd.

Such incidents underscore the risks of stepping outside vehicles in wildlife reserves.

SANParks has also called on witnesses to refrain from sharing graphic images or videos of the recent event on social media due to their sensitive nature. This appeal aims to respect the victim’s family and prevent further distress.

Authorities continue to stress that staying inside vehicles is paramount when navigating wildlife areas. “Safety protocols exist not only to protect visitors but also to preserve the natural behaviour of wildlife,” SANParks management stated.

Kruger National Park remains one of South Africa’s premier tourist destinations, attracting visitors from around the world.

However, tragedies such as this serve as stark reminders of the need for vigilance and respect for nature’s unpredictability.

By adhering to these guidelines, tourists can enjoy South Africa’s remarkable wildlife while ensuring their safety and preserving the sanctity of these natural environments.

Adeleke Adegbite-Adedoyin, Owa Ale of Ikareland, urges Nigerian leaders to prioritise tourism investment for economic growth and cultural preservation.

The Owa Ale of Ikareland, Adeleke Adegbite-Adedoyin, has called on Nigerian government leaders to strengthen the country’s tourism sector, highlighting its potential to drive economic growth.

Addressing attendees at the 2024 Olokemeji Tako-Tabo Festival in Ikare, Ondo State, he urged federal, state, and local governments to promote tourism as a sustainable source of employment and revenue generation.

Also read: Ondo Governor celebrates Ulefunta festival to drive economic growth

Speaking at the annual festival, which drew visitors from within Nigeria and abroad, the monarch underscored the economic and cultural benefits of tourism, describing festivals as vital for fostering local pride and identity.

“Our culture is our pride. Government support in tourism investment would not only generate revenue and employment but also enhance our economy,” he remarked.

The Olokemeji Tako-Tabo Hill, the festival’s focus, holds cultural and historical significance as a symbol of resilience and protection for the Ikare people, dating back to times of inter-tribal conflict.

The monarch lamented that Nigeria often overlooks its heritage in favour of Western influences, stressing that cultural preservation is essential for national identity.

Highlighting the growing interest in Yoruba cultural festivals, he praised the community’s dedication to revitalising local heritage, which he said was evident in the large turnout and enthusiasm at this year’s festival.

A tourist, Peter Ijigbo, also spoke passionately about the cultural importance of such festivals. “Despite my faith as a Christian, this is our heritage, and we cannot turn our backs on it.

I visited last year, and this festival has always been a spiritual and cultural sanctuary for us,” he said.

The Olokemeji Tako-Tabo Festival and similar events in Nigeria offer promising avenues for both economic growth and cultural preservation.

With strategic investments and support, Nigeria’s tourism sector could serve as a significant pillar of the national economy, providing jobs, fostering community engagement, and celebrating the country’s diverse cultural heritage.