Nigeria Suspends Christian Pilgrimage Amid Middle East Crisis

The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced the suspension of Christian pilgrimage activities over the ongoing crisis in the Middle East. Bishop Stephen Adegbit, the Executive Secretary of the National Christian Pilgrimage Commission (NCPC), made this announcement through a statement signed by Mr.

Celestin Toruka, the Deputy Director and Head of Media and Public Relations, on Tuesday in Abuja. This decision was made as a necessary measure to prioritize the safety and comfort of Nigerian pilgrims in light of recent developments, including the state of emergency imposed in Israel.

The NCPC has put a hold on all pilgrimage exercises, including private pilgrimage operations, until the situation normalizes. The commission is closely monitoring the situation and appreciates the cooperation of stakeholders.

Bishop Adegbit urged everyone to pray for peace in Jerusalem and the Middle East. The NCPC successfully concluded the 2025 main pilgrimage exercise to Israel and Jordan, with the last batch of Christian pilgrims arriving safely at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos on March 3.