Nigeria Suspends Christian Pilgrimage to Israel Amid Tensions

The Nigerian government has announced an immediate suspension of Christian pilgrimage activities to Israel, following a deterioration in the security situation in the Middle East. This decision was communicated on Tuesday through a statement from the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), with Mr.

Celestin Toruka, the Deputy Director of Media and Public Relations, and Bishop Stephen Adegbit, the Executive Secretary, highlighting the necessity of this action. The NCPC's primary responsibility is to ensure the safety of Nigerian pilgrims, and they stressed that pilgrimage operations will remain on hold until stability returns to the region.

The commission will also suspend applications for government-coordinated pilgrimage organizations and private tour operators while closely monitoring the situation. Additionally, the NCPC urged Nigerians to offer prayers for peace in Jerusalem and the broader Middle East.

The commission confirmed the successful completion of its 2025 main pilgrimage to Israel and Jordan, with the final batch of pilgrims arriving safely at Murtala Muhammed International Airport on March 3rd.