The Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC) officially announced the suspension of all pilgrimages to Israel and the West Bank on Tuesday, March 3, 2026.
​The decision is a direct response to the “Iran War” and the deteriorating security situation in the Middle East. Here are the key details surrounding this development:
The suspension applies to all upcoming trips, including those organized by the government and those managed by private tour operators.
The NCPC has stated that the suspension will remain in force until the security situation in the region stabilizes and international travel is deemed safe.
The Executive Secretary of the NCPC, Bishop Stephen Adegbite, cited the declaration of a state of emergency in Israel and the heightened military conflict following recent strikes between Israel, the U.S. and Iran.
The final batch of 525 pilgrims from the “2025 Main Pilgrimage” arrived safely at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos at 4:30 AM on March 3.
Over 4,000 Nigerians were successfully airlifted and returned during the 2025 exercise, which began in late December.
Approximately 600 pilgrims who were still in the region when the conflict escalated on Saturday were reportedly evacuated through Jordan before returning to Nigeria.
The conflict is also affecting Nigerian Muslims planning the Umrah (lesser pilgrimage) to Saudi Arabia, with many flights to the region being canceled or rerouted due to airspace closures.
The Federal Government has urged Nigerians to remain calm and avoid any protests that could escalate domestic tensions or affect diplomatic relations.
