National News
FG suspends Christian pilgrimages to Israel over security concerns
The Federal Government has suspended all Christian pilgrimages to Israel with immediate effect, citing escalating security concerns in the Middle East.
The decision was announced on Tuesday by the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC).
In a statement issued in Abuja and signed by the Commission’s Deputy Director and Head of Media and Public Relations, Mr Celestine Toruka, the Executive Secretary of the NCPC, Stephen Adegbite, said the move became necessary in light of the prevailing security situation in Israel.
According to him, the safety and welfare of Nigerian pilgrims remain the Commission’s top priority.
“The recent developments in the Middle East, including the declaration of a state of emergency in Israel, have led to the suspension of all pilgrimage activities.
“This directive also applies to pilgrimage exercises being organised by private operators until the situation normalises,” Adegbite said.
He added that the Commission is closely monitoring developments and expressed appreciation to stakeholders and the media for their understanding and cooperation.
Adegbite further called on Christians and Nigerians at large to pray for peace in Jerusalem and across the Middle East.
Despite the suspension, he disclosed that the Commission had successfully concluded the 2025 Main Pilgrimage to Israel and Jordan.
He noted that the final batch of Nigerian Christian pilgrims returned safely to the country, arriving at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport on March 3.

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