The Delta State Government has set aside more than N2 billion to sponsor citizens participating in the 2026 Christian pilgrimage to Israel and Jordan. The funds will cover full travel costs and provide financial assistance to successful applicants during their journey to the Holy Land.
State Commissioner for the Bureau of Special Duties, Mr Erijo Etacherure, announced the development in Asaba while speaking with the media lead for the exercise, Dr Latimore Oghenesivbe, according to Punch. The Nigeria Christian Pilgrim Commission will conduct screening for all registered applicants beginning on November 11 at the Christian Association of Nigeria Secretariat in Asaba.
Prospective participants who picked up application forms have been instructed to submit them to the Executive Secretary of the Delta State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board by November 9. The commissioner stated that anyone missing the submission deadline will not be screened, adding that all candidates must present valid ECOWAS international passports.
Authorities have also barred individuals who previously took part in any state-funded pilgrimage to Israel or Jordan. Etacherure warned that past beneficiaries are strictly ineligible and any duplicate submissions will be rejected immediately by the screening panel.
Beyond covering travel expenses, the state will give pilgrims spending money to help them buy religious items and simple souvenirs for their families. A joint medical unit from Delta State and the national pilgrim body will oversee the health and general welfare of travelers throughout the exercise.
Etacherure explained that the sponsorship aligns with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s vision of nurturing spiritual growth alongside physical infrastructure. The government believes the spiritual journey will inspire deeper moral responsibility, mutual tolerance, and social harmony among residents across the state.
