Religion

NCPC SUSPENDS PILGRIMAGE TO JERUSALEM AFTER SAFE RETURN OF FINAL GROUP

Published by admin on March 4th, 2026.

NCPC SUSPENDS PILGRIMAGE TO JERUSALEM AFTER SAFE RETURN OF FINAL GROUP

The Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission has officially concluded its 2025 main pilgrimage to Israel and Jordan following the safe return of the last batch of pilgrims.

The final group arrived in Nigeria in the early hours of Tuesday at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, bringing the exercise to a close.

In a statement released by the Commission’s Deputy Director and Head of Media and Public Relations, Celestine Toruka, the Executive Secretary, Bishop Prof. Stephen Adegbite, expressed gratitude to Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, for their continued support.

Bishop Adegbite noted that the success of the pilgrimage exercises carried out since his appointment would not have been possible without the backing of the Federal Government.

He emphasized that the safety and well-being of Nigerian pilgrims remain the Commission’s top priority. According to him, recent developments in the Middle East, including the declaration of a state of emergency in Israel, prompted the suspension of further pilgrimage activities — including those organized by private operators — until the security situation improves.

He added that the Commission is closely observing events in the region and appreciates the understanding and cooperation of stakeholders and the media.

The Executive Secretary also called on Nigerians to pray for lasting peace in Jerusalem and across the Middle East.