The Federal Government, through the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), has announced the immediate suspension of all Christian pilgrimages to Israel due to the deteriorating security situation in the Middle East.
NCPCNCPC Executive Secretary Stephen Adegbite made the disclosure on Tuesday in Lagos during a press briefing following the return of about 500 pilgrims from the 2025 Main Pilgrimage exercise at Murtala Muhammed International Airport.
Adegbite explained that the 2025 pilgrimage began on December 29, 2025, with the inaugural flight departing from Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja. Over 4,000 Nigerian Christian pilgrims were successfully airlifted to the Holy Land without incident.
He highlighted the use of a Boeing 777-300 aircraft with 525 seats — the largest ever deployed for a Christian pilgrimage airlift in Nigeria — and described the exercise as smooth and successful due to effective coordination and government support.
Despite the successful completion of the main pilgrimage, Adegbite cited recent military developments in Israel and the broader Middle East as the reason for the suspension.
“You are aware of the latest security developments in Israel and the wider Middle East,” he said.
“In view of the state of emergency declared by Israeli authorities and restrictions on public gatherings, the Commission has decided to put on hold all pilgrimages both by the Commission and private operators until the security situation normalises.”
He stressed that the safety and welfare of Nigerian pilgrims remain the top priority, and no further travel will be permitted until international travel to Israel is deemed safe.
The suspension will remain in effect until there is clear assurance of stability in the region.
Adegbite cautioned Nigerians against engaging in protests or actions that could escalate tensions linked to the crisis.
“The Federal Government places premium on peace and security. We therefore advise Nigerians to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could undermine national security or diplomatic relations,” he added.
He noted that the Commission is closely monitoring developments and will issue further directives when the situation improves.
Adegbite expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for unprecedented support for both Christian and Muslim pilgrimages, as well as to First Lady Oluremi Tinubu and Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume for their contributions to the 2025 exercise.
He urged Christians and peace advocates to continue praying for stability in Jerusalem and the Middle East to avert a humanitarian crisis.
While pilgrimage remains a key spiritual obligation for many Nigerians, Adegbite reiterated that national interest and citizen safety abroad will always take precedence.
