The Federal Government has suspended all Christian pilgrimage activities to Israel with immediate effect following the worsening security situation in the Middle East.
The announcement was made on Tuesday by the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), citing recent developments in Israel, including the declaration of a state of emergency.
In a statement issued by the Commission’s Deputy Director and Head of Media and Public Relations, Mr. Celestine Toruka, and signed by the Executive Secretary, Stephen Adegbite, the commission said the decision was taken in the interest of pilgrims’ safety.
Adegbite explained that the primary responsibility of the Commission is to safeguard the lives and well-being of Nigerian pilgrims, adding that all pilgrimage operations have been placed on hold until stability returns to the region.
The suspension affects both government-coordinated pilgrimages and those organised by private tour operators.
“The Commission is monitoring the situation closely and appreciates the cooperation of stakeholders and the media,” he said.
He also urged Nigerians to pray for lasting peace in Jerusalem and across the Middle East.
Meanwhile, the Commission confirmed the successful completion of its 2025 main pilgrimage to Israel and Jordan, noting that the final batch of pilgrims arrived safely at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport on March 3.
