The Kwara State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board has kicked off the screening process for intending pilgrims for this year's pilgrimage to Israel and Jordan.

Speaking during the exercise, the chairman of the board, Professor Timothy Opoola, noted that the screening was necessary to certify the health condition of the intending pilgrims and make necessary medical preparation in case of emergencies.

Opoola, a former chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the state, disclosed that delegates from the Nigeria Christian Pilgrims Commission, Abuja, health officials, representatives of security agencies and members of the Welfare Board, were on ground to screen the pilgrims.

He thanked Governor Abdul Rahman AbdulRazaq for the efforts injected into this year's event in order to have a hitch free exercise.

The Senior Special Adviser on Religion (Christian Affairs), The Reverend Timothy Gbenga Akangbe, extolled the support of the governor to the Christian community.

The executive secretary of the board, Mr Adebayo Ajayi, noted that the pilgrims would leave for Israel and Jordan next month.

One of the intending pilgrims, Mrs Mary Omowumi Kolade, who expressed delight with the screening process, appreciated the wife of the governor, Professor Olufolake Abdul Rasaq, for the opportunity given to her to be part of this year's pilgrimage.