The Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC) has successfully concluded the 2025 Main Pilgrimage exercise to Israel and Jordan.
The last batch of Christian pilgrims arrived safely at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, at 4:00 a.m. on March 3, 2026.
Speaking at a press conference in Lagos, NCPC Executive Secretary, Bishop Prof. Stephen Adegbite, expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu, the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, for their support. “Without the President’s support, we would not have been able to conduct the five pilgrimages conducted since my appointment two years ago,” he stated.
Adegbite affirmed that the Commission prioritises the safety and comfort of Nigerian pilgrims. He noted that recent developments in the Middle East, including the imposition of a state of emergency in Israel, have led to the suspension of all pilgrimage exercises, including those conducted by private operators, until the situation normalizes.
He assured that the NCPC is monitoring the situation closely and appreciates the cooperation of stakeholders and the media. Bishop Adegbite further urged Nigerians to continue to pray for peace in Jerusalem and across the Middle East.
By Ngozi Nwankwo, Abuja
