NCPC Lifts Ban on Christian Pilgrimage to Israel

NCPC Lifts Ban on Christian Pilgrimage to Israel

The Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC) has lifted its temporary suspension on Christian pilgrimage to Israel, paving the way for Nigerian pilgrims to resume visits to the Holy Land.

The Executive Secretary of the Commission, Bishop Prof. Stephen Adegbite, announced the decision during a visit to the Western Wall (Wailing Wall) in Jerusalem, Israel.

The Commission had suspended pilgrimage to Israel in February 2026 following the escalation of hostilities involving the United States, Israel and Iran, citing security concerns.

Bishop Adegbite explained that the resumption of pilgrimage would be subject to strict travel arrangements, with Nigerian pilgrims permitted to enter Israel through Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv.

He said the Commission would not route pilgrims through Jordan at this time because of prevailing security concerns in the country.

The NCPC Executive Secretary expressed confidence in the safety of the pilgrimage programme, noting that pilgrims who travelled under previous arrangements returned to Nigeria safely.

He assured Nigerians that the 2026 Christian pilgrimage exercise would be conducted with the safety and welfare of pilgrims given priority.

Bishop Adegbite also used the occasion to offer prayers for peace across Nigeria, seeking divine protection and stability for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the First Lady, members of government and citizens across all geopolitical zones.

He specifically prayed for lasting peace in the North-East, North-Central, North-West, South-South, South-East and South-West, stressing the importance of peace and unity for Nigeria’s progress.

The Commission is expected to continue working with relevant authorities and security agencies to ensure that pilgrimage arrangements remain safe, orderly and properly coordinated.

NCPC Lifts Ban on Christian Pilgrimage to Israel