The Governor of Ekiti State, Biodun Oyebanji has warned Christian pilgrims to Israel to refrain from acts that could jeopardise the interest and corporate image of Nigeria.

Oyebanji gave the warning during a prayer service held for the pilgrims before their journey to Jerusalem, on Friday in Ado-Ekiti, as he described spiritual rebirth of citizens as strategic to the development of any nation on the strength that it brings the required attitudinal change and character rebranding.

Oyebanji, therefore appealed to the contingent to be zealous with the spiritual exercise, so that the gains could manifest in their lives.

Eno assured the visitors that the state would set up a working team to drive the process with the NDDC team toward ensuring a successful festival.

He expressed optimism that the sports festival, beyond fostering unity and collaboration, amongst the component states of the region, would launch talents in the region to limelight and boost the local economy.

Earlier, Ogbuku said the regional commission was a common identity that showcased the beauty in its diversity as well as the shared needs of the people of the area.

The governor reminded the pilgrims that the journey was not physical, but spiritual, which makes it expedient for them to make the necessary sacrifices and piety to make their participation bear the expected fruits.

In his short exhortation, the Government House Chaplain, Segun Awolumate, said that the bible described those who embark on spiritual voyages as blessed.

Awolumate, however, said that the promise of blessings would only bear fruits and manifest positivity, if the pilgrims embrace holiness.