By Ikem Ngozi
The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Pilgrim Affairs, Hon. Barr. Odira Ezeh, has called for stronger collaboration with the Anambra State House of Assembly to promote the 2026 Christian pilgrimage programme.
Ezeh made the call during a courtesy visit to the Deputy Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Chukwuma Pius Okoye at his residence on 19th October, as part of efforts to mobilize stakeholders for the successful implementation of the Pilgrim’s initiative.
Barr. Eze said the programme aligned with Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo’s commitment to promoting the spiritual, moral, social and economic development of Ndi Anambra.
The SSA explained that the Deputy Governor, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim, had developed initiatives to expand pilgrimage opportunities, including a proposed Pilgrimage Exchange Programme to promote religious tourism, create employment and boost the state’s internally generated revenue.
He also highlighted the proposed Pilgrimage Lottery Programme, designed to broaden access to pilgrimage opportunities while ensuring fairness, transparency and credibility in selecting beneficiaries.
Ezeh further announced plans for the Anambra State Christian Pilgrims Summit, which would educate citizens on the spiritual significance of pilgrimage and its potential benefits to individuals and society.
He urged the Deputy Speaker and other lawmakers to encourage eligible members to participate in the programme and explore ways to support deserving constituents who might lack the financial capacity to embark on the pilgrimage.
He said, “I’m confident that a productive partnership with your leadership will contribute to greater awareness of Christian pilgrimage and help make opportunities accessible to more deserving Ndi Anambra”
Responding, Rt Hon. Chukwuma Pius Okoye, the deputy speaker, Anambra state House of Assembly, described the initiative as a welcome development and a long-awaited opportunity for Anambra State.
He commended Governor Soludo for accepting the programme and pledged to partner with the Pilgrim in all their plans to ensure its success.
Ezeh also disclosed that registration forms for the 2026 Christian pilgrimage were currently on sale, urging interested persons to visit the Anambra State Pilgrim Affairs Office for registration and further enquiries.
Ngozibis of the Ministry of Information And Value Reformation, Anambra State.
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