UYO- The Akwa Ibom Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board said it had screened a total of 1,400 intending Christian pilgrims from the state for this year’s pilgrimage.

The three days screening exercise, was based on Senatorial Districts , beginning with Uyo, Ikot Ekpene and Eket Senatorial Districts.

The exercise was carried out under the supervision of Mr. John Opara, the Executive Secretary, Nigeria Christian Pilgrims Commission.

Speaking with newsmen today in Uyo, Opara said more than 1,000 screened Christians from Akwa Ibom would perform this year’s pilgrimage to Israel , coming up early next month.

He said each pilgrim was expected to pay a total of N317, 670 for airfare and ground handling while in Jerusalem , adding that the amount did not include Basic Travel Allowance (BTA) and administrative charges.

He advised the pilgrims to pray for peace and unity of Nigeria and remain good ambassadors while in Israel , in addition to making Jesus Christ, their Lord and personal saviour.

Opara urged those yet to be screened to give accurate and truthful information, warning that “only genuine pilgrims would be given the opportunity to perform the pilgrimage”.

In his address, Rev. Uko Eshiet, the Chairman of Akwa Ibom Chirstian Pilgrims Welfare Board, advised the people to obey simple instruction and follow due process.