The Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC) is pleased to announce the successful conclusion of the 2025 Main Pilgrimage exercise to Israel and Jordan. The final batch of pilgrims arrived safely in Nigeria early this morning, marking the complete and secure return of all participants.
The last group of over 500 pilgrims landed at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos at approximately 4:30 a.m. on March 3, 2026, after completing their spiritually enriching 10-day journey.
This brings to a close a well-organized pilgrimage that began in late December 2025, with the first airlifts departing from Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja on December 29, 2025.
Under the leadership of Bishop Stephen Adegbite, Executive Secretary of the NCPC, the 2025 exercise achieved several milestones, including the historic deployment of a Boeing 777-300ER aircraft the largest ever used for Christian pilgrimages from Nigeria capable of accommodating over 500 passengers in a single flight. Pilgrims visited key biblical and historical sites in both Israel and Jordan, deepening their faith through prayer, reflection, and encounters with the Holy Land.
Bishop Adegbite expressed profound gratitude to God for the safe travels and successful completion of the program.
He commended the pilgrims for their discipline and devotion, as well as the various stakeholders including federal and state Christian Pilgrim Welfare Boards, ground handlers, tour operators, and security agencies for their collaboration in ensuring a smooth and incident-free experience.
"The safe return of every pilgrim is a testament to God's protection and the dedication of all involved," Bishop Adegbite stated. "This pilgrimage has strengthened the spiritual lives of participants and reinforced Nigeria's commitment to facilitating meaningful religious journeys for its Christian faithful."
The NCPC also used the occasion to reaffirm the Federal Government's ongoing monitoring of regional developments in the Middle East. While the 2025 exercise was completed successfully, future pilgrimages will be guided by prevailing security assessments to prioritize the safety of Nigerian pilgrims.
The Commission extends its appreciation to the Federal Government, state governments, airline partners, and all service providers who contributed to this achievement. Prayers were offered throughout the pilgrimage for peace in Nigeria, the nation's leaders, and global harmony.