By John Ikani
The Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission (NCPC) has announced that it is halting all pilgrimages to Israel and Jordan due to the ongoing crisis within the nation.
In a statement signed by Abu Okpanachi, the Head of Operations of the NCPC, on behalf of Executive Secretary Yakubu Pam, the Commission revealed that it originally intended to transport consuls and self-sponsored intending pilgrims to Jordan.
There, they were scheduled to spend four days before continuing to Israel.
However, given the current circumstances, the Commission has assured pilgrims that the pilgrimage will recommence when the situation in Israel improves.
The Commission has expressed regret for any inconvenience caused by this postponement.
The statement conveyed, “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, NCPC Executive Secretary Yakubu Pam has congratulated the fifth batch of pilgrims on the successful completion of their pilgrimage in Israel.
Mostly consisting of the first batch of Lagos contingents, the pilgrims landed at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, Lagos, at precisely 12:50 am local time today, October 10, 2023.
They had departed the country on September 30th for the 2023 Easter pilgrimage completion exercise.
Yakubu Pam expressed his delight at their safe return and commended their exemplary behavior throughout the exercise.
“I am very excited to know that our fifth batch of pilgrims returned safely to the country, sound and complete,” he stated.
He went on to praise them for their calm demeanor, patience, good conduct, and resilience during their eight nights and nine days of pilgrimage in the Holy Land.
He also emphasized that the safety of Nigerian pilgrims will remain the Commission’s top priority.
