Lagos Unveils Alternative Pilgrimage Route to Rome and Greece in 2023/2024

The Lagos State government has initiated the sale of forms for the 2023/2024 pilgrimage, offering intending pilgrims the opportunity to visit the “Holy Land of Rome and Greece.”

In a statement shared on the official X handle of the Lagos State government, the decision to redirect the pilgrimage route from Israel and Jordan to Rome and Greece was explained. This adjustment came after the suspension of the holy pilgrimage to Israel and Jordan in October, prompted by security concerns in Israel that resulted in tragic incidents.

Mrs. Yetunde Florence Gbafe, the Executive Secretary of Lagos State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board, clarified that the redirection aimed to ensure the safety and security of intending pilgrims. She emphasized that the historical significance of Rome and Greece, where pilgrims would walk in the footsteps of the New Testament Apostles, was a compelling reason for the alternative pilgrimage route.

Gbafe highlighted that the next pilgrimage exercise is scheduled for January 2024. Intending pilgrims are encouraged to purchase their forms at the Board’s Office, Old Secretariat, Oba Akinjobi Way, GRA, Ikeja, or Chapel of Christ the Light, Alausa, Ikeja.

Despite the temporary shift from Jordan and Israel to Rome and Greece, Gbafe assured that the welfare packages and quality service provided by LSCPWB to intending pilgrims would remain unaffected. She emphasized that the state government would cover the costs of tickets, visas, accommodation, feeding, and welfare materials upon the payment of the required pilgrimage fee.