The Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission (NCPC) has officially announced the suspension of all pilgrimages to Israel and Jordan due to the escalating crisis in the nation. This decision comes as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of pilgrims amid the volatile situation.
The announcement was made on Tuesday morning through an official statement signed by Abu Okpanachi, the Head of Operations of the NCPC, on behalf of the Executive Secretary, Yakubu Pam. The Commission had been in the final stages of preparations to airlift Consulars and self-sponsored intending pilgrims later today to Amman, Jordan, where they were scheduled to spend four days before proceeding to Israel.
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Abu Okpanachi, speaking on behalf of the NCPC, conveyed assurances to the pilgrims affected by this postponement.
He stated that the Commission is committed to resuming the pilgrimage exercise as soon as conditions in Israel become more favorable. In light of the suspension, the NCPC expressed deep regret for any inconvenience caused to pilgrims.
The announcement is as follows,
“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 honour you greatly for your understanding.”
In the meantime, Yakubu Pam, the Executive Secretary of the NCPC, extends his heartfelt congratulations to the fifth batch of pilgrims who have successfully completed their pilgrimage journey in Israel.
These pilgrims, predominantly comprising the initial group from Lagos, touched down at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Ikeja, Lagos, precisely at 12:50 am local time today, October 10, 2023. They embarked on their pilgrimage journey on September 30, 2023, as part of the 2023 Easter pilgrimage completion exercise.
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Mr. Pam expressed his joy at their safe return and commended them for their exemplary behavior throughout the pilgrimage.
“I am very excited to know that our fifth batch of pilgrims returned safely to the country, sound and complete,” he said.
He particularly lauded their calm demeanor, patience, decorum, and resilience during their eight-night and nine-day pilgrimage in the Holy Land. He reiterated the commitment of his Commission to prioritize the safety of Nigerian pilgrims at all times.
