Intending Christian pilgrims to the Holy Land of Israel have been charged to be patriotic and refrain from acts that could tarnish and jeopardise the interest and corporate image of Nigeria.
Ekiti State governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji gave the charge describing spiritual rebirth of citizens as strategic to the development of any nation on the strength that it brings the required attitudinal change and character rebranding.
The governors spoke in Ado Ekiti on Friday during a departure service held for Ekiti’s Christian Pilgrims, who are proceeding on a spiritual journey to Jerusalem.
Speaking at an event held at the Government House Chapel, Ado Ekiti, Oyebanji, who was represented by his deputy, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, appealed to the contingents to be zealous with the spiritual exercise, so that the gains can manifest in their lives.
“Spiritual rebirth of the citizens is very strategic to the growth and development of any nation. This is because it brings the necessary attitudinal change, character rebranding, increased holiness and Godliness.
“We desire a society that is corruption- free, where people can imbibe the fear of God in their operations and daily lives. I therefore charge you to pray not only for yourselves, but for our dear state, nation, and the world at large. We live in times that require our collective prayer and unity more than ever.
“I charge you to be focused when you get to the holy land for you to maximally derive the gains inherent in this journey. I plead that you do not engage in any act that can jeopardise the intentions of this pilgrimage and put our nation into unwarranted international embarrassment.
“You have to be above board in all your dealings and comportment. I pray that your pilgrimage will be filled with divine encounters, joy and spiritual fulfilment. May you return home with renewed faith and a stronger commitment to serve your communities, state and country”.
The governor reminded the pilgrims that the journey is not physical, but spiritual, which makes it expedient for them to make the necessary sacrifices and piety that can make their participation bear the expected fruits.
“I, however, wish to admonish you that as you prepare to leave, you must carry with you the values of love, peace, and unity that define our great state. You are ambassadors of our culture, traditions, and the spirit of Ekiti,” he said.
