The Federal Government of Nigeria, represented by the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), declared on Tuesday the immediate suspension of all pilgrimages to Israel due to escalating security issues in the Middle East.
Bishop Stephen Adegbite, the Executive Secretary of the NCPC, conveyed this announcement through a statement issued by Mr. Celestine Toruka, the Deputy Director and Head of Media and Public Relations in the Commission, during an event in Abuja.
He emphasized that this action is crucial as the safety and well-being of Nigerian pilgrims are of utmost importance.
"Recent events in the Middle East, particularly the declaration of a state of emergency in Israel, necessitate the postponement of all pilgrimage activities," he noted.
"This includes those arranged by private pilgrimage operators until the situation improves."
The NCPC is actively monitoring the circumstances and appreciates the collaboration of stakeholders and media personnel, he added.
Bishop Adegbite also called on everyone to offer prayers for peace in Jerusalem and the wider Middle East.
He indicated that the Commission successfully carried out the 2025 Main Pilgrimage to Israel and Jordan, reporting that the final group of Christian pilgrims returned safely to the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos on March 3.
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