FG suspends pilgrimages to Israel over Middle East security situation

The federal government has announced the immediate suspension of all pilgrimages to Israel due to the security situation in the Middle East.

In a statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday, Stephen Adegbite, executive secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), said the decision became necessary following recent developments in the region.

According to NAN, the statement was signed by Celestine Toruka, deputy director and head of media and public relations at the commission.

Adegbite said the measure was taken in view of the safety and comfort of Nigerian pilgrims.

“The recent developments in the Middle East, including the imposition of a state of emergency in Israel, have led to the putting on hold of all pilgrimage exercises,” the statement reads.

“This also includes the ones being conducted by the private pilgrimage operators until the situation normalises.

“The NCPC is monitoring the situation closely and appreciates the cooperation of stakeholders and the media.”

Adegbite urged Nigerians to pray for peace in Jerusalem and the Middle East, adding that the commission had successfully concluded the 2025 main pilgrimage exercise to Israel and Jordan.

He said the last batch of Christian pilgrims arrived safely at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos on March 3.

The executive secretary expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu; Oluremi Tinubu, the first lady; and George Akume, secretary to the government of the federation (SGF), 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 said.