By Ikem Ngozi
The Senior Special Assistant to Governor Chukwuma Soludo on Pilgrim Affairs, Mr Odira Ezeh, has sought the collaboration of the Anambra State Special Anti Touting Squad (SASA) to promote Christian pilgrimage and spiritual development in the state.
Ezeh made the appeal during a courtesy visit to SASA Managing Director, Mr Monday Desmond Nwokoye, on Oct. 24.
He commended Nwokoye for his efforts to promote orderliness, discipline and public safety, noting that a peaceful environment was essential for development.
Ezeh said Christian pilgrimage offered opportunities for spiritual renewal, cultural exchange and the promotion of community values, in line with the state government’s commitment to the spiritual, social and economic development of residents.
He said the Deputy Governor, Dr Onyekachukwu Ibezim, was promoting initiatives, including the proposed Pilgrimage Exchange Programme and Pilgrimage Lottery Programme, to encourage religious tourism, create jobs, generate revenue and expand access to pilgrimage.
The SSA also announced preparations for the Anambra State Christian Pilgrims Summit, aimed at educating residents on the significance and benefits of pilgrimage and strengthening collaboration among government officials, church leaders, market leaders and professional bodies.
He urged SASA to collaborate with the Pilgrim Affairs Office to sensitise residents to pilgrimage opportunities and encourage eligible persons to participate.
Ezeh added that registration forms for the 2026 Christian pilgrimage were available to interested participants.
Responding, Nwokoye expressed support for the state government’s security initiatives, saying sustained efforts by the government and security agencies had contributed to a reduction in kidnapping, thuggery and drug related activities.
He described the fight against criminality as challenging and commended security personnel for their efforts to protect residents.
Nwokoye emphasised the importance of intelligence gathering, vigilance and community cooperation in sustaining security gains.
He expressed confidence that continued collaboration among the government, security agencies, religious institutions and residents would further strengthen peace and order in Anambra.
Ikem Ngozi is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
#PilgrimAffairs
#SASA
#ReligiousTourism
