The Ondo state government has announced the discontinuance of state sponsoring of pilgrimages to both Mecca and Israel.
This was disclosed by the state governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, on Wednesday while hosting the Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Christian Pilgrims Commission, Reverend Uja Tor Uja.
He said the decision is predicated on the lack of funds to bear such a burden. The state government has had to tighten the purse strings and prudently spend its resources.
He said it is now government policy but plans are in place for the state Christian Welfare Board to constitute a platform to encourage churches and wealthy individuals to sponsor intending pilgrims.