The Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC) has announced the immediate suspension of all Christian pilgrimages to Israel following escalating security concerns in the Middle East.
The Executive Secretary of the Commission, Stephen Adegbite, disclosed this in Lagos during a press briefing shortly after 500 Nigerian pilgrims returned from the 2025 Main Pilgrimage exercise. The group arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, marking the conclusion of this year’s operations.
The 2025 pilgrimage commenced on December 29, 2025, with the inaugural flight departing from the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja. In total, over 4,000 Nigerian Christian pilgrims were successfully airlifted to the Holy Land without any reported incidents.
According to Adegbite, the Commission deployed a Boeing 777-300 aircraft with a seating capacity of 525 for the exercise, making it the largest aircraft ever used for Christian pilgrimage airlift operations in Nigeria.
However, he noted that recent military developments in Israel and the wider Middle East have necessitated a halt to further pilgrimage activities. He cited the state of emergency declared by Israeli authorities and restrictions on public gatherings as key factors influencing the decision.
“In view of the current security situation and the safety concerns arising from it, the Commission has decided to suspend all pilgrimages—both those organised by the Commission and by private operators—until normalcy is restored,” he said.
Adegbite emphasised that the safety and welfare of Nigerian pilgrims remain the Commission’s top priority, adding that the situation is being closely monitored. He also cautioned Nigerians against engaging in protests or actions that could escalate tensions linked to the crisis.
He reiterated that the suspension would remain in force until international travel to Israel is considered safe.
Adegbite expressed appreciation to Bola Tinubu for his support toward Christian and Muslim pilgrimages. He also acknowledged the contributions of Oluremi Tinubu and George Akume toward the successful completion of the 2025 pilgrimage exercise.
He urged Christians and peace advocates to continue praying for stability in Jerusalem and across the Middle East to avert a humanitarian crisis.
