Abuja, Nigeria – The Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission (NCPC) has officially announced the suspension of all pilgrimages to Israel and Jordan due to the ongoing crisis in the nation. This decision was communicated via a statement released on Tuesday morning and signed by the Head of Operations of the NCPC, Abu Okpanachi, on behalf of the Executive Secretary, Yakubu Pam.
Initially, the Commission had planned to airlift Consulars and self-sponsored intending pilgrims to Amman, Jordan, followed by a trip to Israel. However, in light of the current situation in Israel, the pilgrimage has been postponed indefinitely.
In the statement, Okpanachi reassured the pilgrims that the Commission would proceed with the pilgrimage as soon as conditions in Israel improved. He expressed deep regret for any inconveniences caused by the postponement and called for understanding among the affected individuals.
The statement reads: “I am directed to inform you that our planned pilgrimage to Israel and Jordan has been postponed due to the prevailing crisis situation in Southern Israel. The Executive Secretary deeply regrets every inconvenience this will cause you and prays that the good Lord will give peace in our hearts, knowing that all things work together for good for us who love God. Kindly be assured that as soon as the situation improves, the Commission will commence the pilgrimage exercise. May the good Lord honor you greatly for your understanding.”
Meanwhile, Yakubu Pam, the Executive Secretary of NCPC, congratulated the fifth batch of pilgrims on their successful pilgrimage exercise in Israel. These pilgrims, mostly from the first batch of Lagos contingents, arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos at 12:50 am local time on October 10, 2023, after completing their 2023 Easter pilgrimage.
Pam expressed his delight at their safe return and commended their exemplary conduct throughout the pilgrimage. He emphasized that the safety and well-being of Nigerian pilgrims would continue to be a top priority for the Commission.