The Federal Government has announced the suspension of all pilgrimages to Israel due to the deteriorating security situation in the Middle East.
The decision was disclosed on Tuesday by the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission, NCPC. The announcement came shortly after about 500 pilgrims returned to the country from the 2025 Main Pilgrimage exercise. They arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos.
The Executive Secretary of the Commission, Stephen Adegbite, addressed journalists during a press briefing in Lagos. He explained that the measure became necessary in light of recent developments in Israel and neighbouring countries.
The 2025 pilgrimage exercise commenced on December 29, 2025. The inaugural flight departed from the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja. More than 4,000 Nigerian Christian pilgrims were transported to the Holy Land during the exercise. No incident was recorded throughout the operation.
Adegbite stated that the Commission deployed a Boeing 777-300 aircraft with a seating capacity of 525 for the airlift. He described it as the largest aircraft ever used for Christian pilgrimage operations in Nigeria.
He noted that fresh military activities in the region forced the Commission to halt further trips.
“You are aware of the latest security developments in Israel and the wider Middle East.
“In view of the state of emergency declared by Israeli authorities and restrictions on public gatherings, the Commission has decided to put on hold all pilgrimages both by the Commission and private operators until the security situation normalises,” he said.
Adegbite stressed that the safety and welfare of Nigerian pilgrims remain the Commission’s top priority. He said officials are monitoring events in the region closely.
He also warned Nigerians against participating in protests or any action that could heighten tension linked to the crisis.
The suspension, according to him, will remain effective until international travel to Israel is considered safe.
“The Federal Government places premium on peace and security. We therefore advise Nigerians to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could undermine national security or diplomatic relations,” he added.
The NCPC boss commended President Bola Tinubu for what he called unprecedented backing for Christian and Muslim pilgrimages. He acknowledged the support of First Lady Oluremi Tinubu and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume. He said their contributions ensured the smooth completion of the 2025 pilgrimage.
Adegbite urged Christians and advocates of peace to continue praying for calm in Jerusalem and across the Middle East. He warned that instability in the region could trigger a humanitarian crisis if not contained.
