The Federal Government, through the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), on Tuesday announced the immediate suspension of all pilgrimages to Israel, citing the ongoing security concerns in the Middle East.
The Executive Secretary of the Commission, Stephen Adegbite, made the disclosure in Lagos during a press briefing shortly after 500 pilgrims landed at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport from the 2025 Main Pilgrimage exercise.
The pilgrimage exercise began December 29, 2025, with the inaugural flight departing from the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
In total, more than 4,000 Nigerian Christian pilgrims were airlifted to the Holy Land without any reported incident.
According to the NCPC boss, the Commission deployed a Boeing 777-300 aircraft with a 525 seating capacity for the operation. It was the largest aircraft ever used for Christian pilgrimage airlift in Nigeria.
However, he said recent military developments in the region have compelled the Commission to suspend further pilgrimages.
“You are aware of the latest security developments in Israel and the wider Middle East.
“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 said.
Adegbite emphasised that the safety and welfare of Nigerian pilgrims remain paramount, noting that the Commission is closely monitoring the situation.
He cautioned Nigerians against engaging in protests or actions that could escalate tensions arising from the crisis.
According to him, the suspension of pilgrimage activities will remain in force until international travel to Israel is deemed safe.
“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.
Adegbite equally expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for what he described as unprecedented support for both Christian and Muslim pilgrimages.
He also acknowledged the contributions made by First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, that led to the successful completion of the 2025 exercise.
Adegbite urged Christians and peace advocates to continue praying for stability in Jerusalem and across the Middle East to prevent a humanitarian crisis.
