A 
buja, Nigeria – March 5, 2026 – The Federal Government has suspended all Christian pilgrimages to Israel indefinitely, citing serious security concerns following the declaration of a state of emergency by Israeli authorities and restrictions on public gatherings in the region.
The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), Bishop Stephen Adegbite, announced the suspension in a statement issued on Wednesday, emphasizing that the safety and welfare of Nigerian pilgrims remain the Commission’s top priority.
“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,” Adegbite stated.
He stressed that no further travel would be permitted until international travel to Israel is considered safe, adding that the suspension will remain in force until there is clear assurance of stability in the region.
The decision reflects the Federal Government’s cautious approach to citizen safety amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, which have raised concerns about the well-being of Nigerian pilgrims who would otherwise be traveling to holy sites in Jerusalem and other parts of Israel.
Adegbite cautioned Nigerians against engaging in protests or actions that could escalate tensions arising from the crisis.
“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 chief urged Christians and peace advocates to continue praying for stability in Jerusalem and across the Middle East to avert what he described as a potential humanitarian crisis.
The NCPC Executive Secretary expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for what he described as unprecedented support for both Christian and Muslim pilgrimage exercises. He also acknowledged the contributions of the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, towards the successful completion of the 2025 pilgrimage.
Their support, he noted, has been instrumental in ensuring that Nigerian pilgrims can fulfill their spiritual obligations under safe and organized conditions when circumstances permit.
Adegbite noted that the Commission was closely monitoring developments in the region and would issue further directives when the situation improves. He reiterated that while pilgrimage remains an important spiritual obligation for many Nigerians, national interest and the safety of citizens abroad would always take precedence.
The suspension affects both pilgrimages organized directly by the NCPC and those arranged by private tour operators, ensuring a comprehensive approach to citizen safety.
The decision highlights the delicate balance the Federal Government must strike between facilitating religious practices and protecting citizens from potential harm. With tensions in the Middle East showing no immediate signs of abating, Nigerian Christians who had planned pilgrimages to Israel will have to wait until security conditions normalize.
For now, the government’s message is clear: no spiritual journey is worth the risk of citizens’ lives. The safety of Nigerians, whether at home or abroad, remains paramount.
