Uzodimma raps second batch of Imo Pilgrims, seeks prayers for State

Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State on Saturday bid farewell to the second batch of pilgrims departing for the Holy Land of Jordan and Israel from the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, Owerri.

At a brief ceremony held at the Government House Chapel, the Governor rapped the pilgrims with words of encouragement, and also called for fervent prayers for the State.

“Imo will see the evidence of your visit to the Holy Land,” Governor Uzodimma  told them, expressing confidence that the pilgrimage would yield spiritual and tangible blessings for the State and the Country.

“We need prayers. Go and pray for our State. God will not abandon His own people. There is nothing God cannot do. Believe in God,” he said.

He attributed Imo State’s progress so far to divine intervention, saying, “we have gotten to this stage because of the mercies and blessings of God.”

The Governor expressed optimism that the pilgrims’ good deeds would attract further blessings, adding, “I pray that our good deeds will only bring good deeds to us.”

Governor Uzodimma reiterated his administration’s commitment to supporting religious activities, noting that doing so helps to foster unity and spiritual growth.

He concluded his remarks with a prayer: “May God bless all of us.”

The send-off ceremony was attended by government officials, religious leaders, and families of the pilgrims.

Visibly inspired by the Governor’s words, the pilgrims expressed gratitude for the opportunity to undertake the sacred journey.

They pledged to pray for peace, progress, and prosperity for Imo State in particular and Nigeria at large while at the Holy Land.

About a fortnight ago, the first batch were sent off at a colourful flag off ceremony at the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport where President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was ably represented by the Secretary to the Federal Government, Sen. George Akume.

The return of the first batch on Friday, October 3, 2025 paved the way for the departure of the second batch on Saturday, October 4, 2025.