Chinedum Treasure
Chairman of Onitsha Main Market, Michael Chijioke Okpalaugo has expressed his readiness to collaborate with the Anambra State Christian Pilgrims Office to promote greater participation of traders in Christian pilgrimage programmes.
Okpalaugo made the commitment when the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Pilgrims Affairs, Office of the Deputy Governor, Hon. Barr. Odira Ezeh, led members of staff of the Anambra State Christian Pilgrims Office on a courtesy visit to the market leadership.
Ezeh commended the market chairman for his leadership and efforts towards maintaining peace and coordination among traders.
He appealed to the market leadership to support and encourage traders to participate in the forthcoming pilgrimage programme to Israel and Jordan, noting that registration forms were already available.
He described Christian pilgrimage as more than a spiritual journey, saying it also provides opportunities for spiritual and moral renewal, human development, religious tourism, cultural exchange and socio-economic advancement.
Ezeh further called on the market leadership to help disseminate accurate information and mobilise eligible traders and other residents of Onitsha interested in participating in the programme.
He also disclosed that preparations were ongoing for an Anambra State Christian Pilgrims Summit, which is expected to provide a platform for educating Ndi Anambra on the significance of pilgrimage and strengthening collaboration among government, the Church, market leaders and other stakeholders.
Responding, Okpalaugo commended the Anambra State Christian Pilgrims Office for reaching out to the market and said the present leadership of Onitsha Main Market was prepared to work with government institutions on initiatives that benefit traders and the wider community.
“Onitsha Main Market has been in existence, but the leadership presently is different as the government has interest in the market. Anything that has to do with the government, we will always like to align with it, and I will like to work with you on this programme,” he said.
Okpalaugo’s position is expected to strengthen efforts to create wider awareness among traders and encourage eligible residents to take advantage of the pilgrimage programme, while also deepening cooperation between the market leadership and the Anambra State Christian Pilgrims Office.
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