FG Suspends Christian Pilgrimages Amid Middle East Crisis

By Tgnews Reporter

The Nigerian Federal Government has announced the immediate suspension of all Christian pilgrimages to Israel and related sites in the Middle East due to escalating security concerns in the region.

The decision was made by the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), which cited the declaration of a state of emergency in Israel and ongoing military developments as key reasons for the move.

Bishop Stephen Adegbite, Executive Secretary of the NCPC, stated that the safety and well-being of Nigerian pilgrims remain the top priority.

In a statement released on Tuesday in Abuja and signed by Mr. Celestine Toruka, Deputy Director and Head of Media and Public Relations, Bishop Adegbite explained: “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. This also includes the ones being conducted by private pilgrimage operators until the situation normalises.”

The NCPC is closely monitoring the situation and has urged stakeholders and the media for continued cooperation. Bishop Adegbite also called on Nigerians to pray for peace in Jerusalem and the broader Middle East.

The announcement follows the successful completion of the 2025 Main Pilgrimage exercise to Israel and Jordan.

The final batch of pilgrims arrived safely at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos on March 3, marking the end of that year’s program.

This suspension comes against the backdrop of heightened tensions in the Middle East, including recent military escalations involving Israel, the United States, and Iran, which have led to widespread instability, airspace restrictions, and regional retaliatory actions.

The NCPC emphasized that the suspension will remain in place until international travel to Israel is deemed safe again. No new pilgrimage dates have been scheduled, and intending pilgrims are advised to stay updated through official channels.