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The Deputy Speaker of Anambra House of Assembly, Mr Pius Okoye, has commended Governor Chukwuma Soludo for approving the participation of the state in the 2026 pilgrimage visit to the Holy Land.
Okoye made the commendation when Mr Odira Ezeh, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Pilgrim Affairs and his members of staff paid him a courtesy call on Tuesday.
The lawmaker said he was impressed that Soludo revived the state pilgrims office which had been moribond, making it impossible for intending Pilgrims in the state to take part in the spiritual journey for many years.
“It has been a long time since Anambra participated in pilgrimage activities.
“I thank God for this initiative and also the governor for accepting that Anambra should participate in this 2026 edition.
“On my part and on behalf of the people of Awka South II Constituency which I represent, I will partner and help ensure it becomes a success,” he said.
Earlier in his address, Ezeh, the leader of the team said the visit was aimed at fostering a stronger partnership with the leadership and members of the Anambra state House of Assembly in advancing the spiritual, social and developmental objectives of the present administration.
He commended Okoye for his role in promoting legislative development and good governance in provision of valuable platforms for engagement, collaboration and the promotion of initiatives which contribute to the overall development of our society.
“Under the leadership of Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, the Anambra State Government remains committed to initiatives that promote the spiritual, moral, social and economic development of Anambra,” he said.
He said Dr Onyekachukwu Ibezim, the deputy governor had developed initiatives aimed at expanding the opportunities associated with Christian pilgrimage including the proposed Pilgrimage Exchange Programme, which sought to promote religious tourism, attract visitors to Anambra state.
He said Christian pilgrimage was one of the avenues through which individuals could experience spiritual renewal, deepen their faith, learn from other cultures and return home with renewed commitment to their families, communities and the state.
Ezeh used the occasion to inform the deputy speaker about the forthcoming Anambra State Christian Pilgrims Summit which was intended to deepen public understanding of Christian pilgrimage, encourage responsible participation and strengthen cooperation among strategic stakeholders.
He also announced that the sale of 2026 Christian Pilgrimage Registration Forms was ongoing and interested persons were encouraged to visit the Pilgrim Affairs Office for registration and further enquiries.
He urged Okoye to assist in publicising the registration exercise among your colleagues and direct intending pilgrims to our office for information and guidance on the necessary requirements.
“I wish to encourage you and the leadership of the Anambra State House of Assembly to partner with the Anambra State Pilgrim Affairs Office in encouraging interested and eligible members to participate in the State’s pilgrimage programme.
“Given the important role of the Legislature in governance and public engagement, your support for the State Pilgrim Affairs Office would be valuable.
“Encouraging participation and identifying opportunities to support deserving people from your constituency who may wish to embark on pilgrimage but lack the financial capacity to do so would be a noble contribution.
“I believe that collaboration with the leadership of the Anambra State House of Assembly will help extend the reach of the State’s pilgrimage initiatives and promote greater participation among individuals from different walks of life.
“I look forward to the participation and support of the House of Assembly in this important initiative, I am confident that this partnership will contribute to greater awareness of Christian pilgrimage and help make available opportunities accessible to more deserving Anambra people,” he said.
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