NCPC airlifts first batch of 2025 Christian pilgrims to Israel, Jordan
The Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC) has commenced the airlift of pilgrims for the 2025 main pilgrimage to Israel and Jordan.
The Executive Secretary of the Commission, Mr Stephen Adegbite, announced this in a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja by the Head of Media and Public Relations, Celestine Toruka.
According to Adegbite, the first batch of pilgrims departed from the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, aboard a Boeing 777-300 aircraft with a seating capacity of about 525, the largest aircraft so far deployed for Christian pilgrimage operations in Nigeria.
He said the milestone was achieved through the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, members of the NCPC board, and the air carrier, noting that the backing of the President was instrumental to the success of the 2024 and 2025 pilgrimage exercises.
Adegbite also commended the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu; Vice President Kashim Shettima; and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, for their contributions to advancing Christian pilgrimage in Nigeria.
He further praised Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, describing him as one of the most supportive governors of Christian pilgrimage in the North-East due to his consistent sponsorship of pilgrims.
The NCPC boss assured pilgrims that adequate arrangements had been made for a smooth and successful exercise, urging them to be good ambassadors of Christ and Nigeria. He also warned against absconding during the pilgrimage, stressing that mechanisms had been put in place to prevent such actions.
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