The Federal Government has officially put a hold on all Christian pilgrimage activities to Israel, citing the escalating security challenges in the Middle East. This decision was made through the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC) as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of Nigerian citizens who intended to travel for religious purposes.
Bishop Stephen Adegbite, the Executive Secretary of the NCPC, confirmed the development in a statement released in Abuja on Tuesday. He explained that the commission reached this decision after carefully reviewing the current state of emergency declared in Israel. According to the leadership, the primary concern at this moment is the well-being and security of every pilgrim, which cannot be guaranteed under the current volatile climate.
The suspension is far-reaching and covers not just the government-led trips but also those organized by private pilgrimage operators. Reports gathered that all related travel activities will remain on hold until the situation in the region stabilizes enough to allow for a smooth and peaceful exercise. The NCPC has assured the public that it is monitoring the situation around the clock and will provide updates as new information becomes available.
In the midst of the uncertainty, Bishop Adegbite encouraged the faithful and all Nigerians to join in prayers for the restoration of peace in Jerusalem and the wider Middle East. He noted that while travel has been halted, the spiritual significance of the region remains at the forefront of the commission’s mission.
On a more positive note, the commission successfully wrapped up the 2025 Main Pilgrimage to both Israel and Jordan just before the security situation worsened. The very last batch of pilgrims from that exercise returned home safely, landing at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos on March 3. This successful conclusion of the previous cycle provides some relief as the commission prepares to navigate the current diplomatic and security hurdles.
