The Delta Government has allocated over N2bn to sponsor successful Christian pilgrims to Israel and Jordan under the 2026 pilgrimage program.
Mr Erijo Etacherure, the State Commissioner for the Bureau of Special Duties, revealed this in Asaba on Friday.
He stated that the Nigeria Christian Pilgrim Commission would commence screening prospective pilgrims on November 11.
Etacherure made the statement while briefing the State Head of Media for the pilgrimage, Dr. Latimore Oghenesivbe.
He explained that the screening would be conducted at the Christian Association of Nigeria Secretariat in Asaba.
According to him, applicants who obtained registration forms are required to complete and submit them by November 9.
He instructed applicants to submit their forms to the Executive Secretary of the Delta State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board.
“Applicants who fail to meet the deadline would not be attended to at the screening venue.
“All intending pilgrims should present valid ECOWAS international passports for the exercise,” he said.
Etacherure stated that the NCPC would assess applicants’ eligibility and emphasized that its decisions would be final.
He cautioned that anyone who had previously benefited from a state-government-sponsored pilgrimage to Israel or Jordan would be ineligible.
“Any person who has previously taken part in a state-government-sponsored pilgrimage to Israel or Jordan is not eligible to apply.
“Such an application will be automatically disqualified,” he said.
The commissioner stated that successful applicants would receive complete sponsorship, as well as additional financial support during their stay in the Holy Land.
He explained that this extra assistance would allow pilgrims to buy religious materials and modest gifts for their loved ones.
Etacherure said the initiative demonstrated Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s commitment to advancing the spiritual well-being of citizens.
He characterized Christian pilgrimage as a chance for spiritual renewal, personal reflection, and a deeper appreciation of biblical history.
He added that during the religious journey, pilgrims would also pray for Nigeria, Delta State, and their respective families.
“Visiting biblical sites will enable pilgrims to experience important locations associated with the life and ministry of Jesus Christ.
“This will deepen their knowledge of scripture and strengthen their faith,” he said.
Etacherure stated that the benefits would go beyond individual spiritual enrichment, reaching families, churches, and communities.
He expressed confidence that beneficiaries would return with firmer moral convictions and a deeper appreciation of peace, compassion, and tolerance.
According to him, these values could encourage responsible citizenship, social harmony, and peaceful coexistence throughout the state.
The commissioner said investment in spiritual tourism was part of the government’s wider human development strategy.
He stressed that infrastructure development and economic growth should complement efforts to reinforce society’s moral and spiritual foundations.
Etacherure also assured intending pilgrims that comprehensive welfare arrangements had been finalized for the exercise.
He said the Delta medical team would work with the NCPC medical team to provide healthcare throughout the pilgrimage.
“The medical teams will provide healthcare services and attend to the medical needs of pilgrims throughout the pilgrimage,” he said.
He called on residents to pray for peace, unity, and sustainable development throughout the state and the country.
Etacherure emphasized that shared responsibility, moral discipline, and dedication to the common good continued to be vital for societal progress.
