By YANGE IKYAA
The Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC) has suspended the airlifting of pilgrims to Israel, citing hostilities in the southern part of the country.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the commission regretted any inconvenience that the decision might cause anyone, but also maintained that the safety of the people was considered first in arriving at such a decision.
According to the statement, “NCPC hereby regrets to inform its relevant stakeholders which include state christian pilgrims welfare boards across the states of the federation, our distinguished intending pilgrims and the general public that the scheduled airlift of intending Christian pilgrims to Israel and Jordan on Tuesday, 10th October, 2023 has been suspended forthwith.
“The commission in consultation with stakeholders has agreed to suspend the last batch of the airlift of intending Christian pilgrims to Israel and Jordan in the meantime, following the hostilities that erupted in southern Israel on 7th October, 2023.
“Consequently, the Israeli government as a safety measure had imposed a state of emergency in the State of Israel to forestall the escalation of the crisis and curb casualties and deaths.
“The commission hereby reiterates that the safety of the Nigerian pilgrims remain our top priority and would not compromise the safety and well being of our pilgrims.
“The commission therefore appeals for patience and understanding of our esteemed stakeholders.
“We hereby assure you all that the commission is in constant touch with our ground handlers over the precarious security situation in Israel.
“We would ensure that the stakeholders are promptly communicated as soon as the situation in Israel de-escalates.
“The commission would want to use this medium to enjoin all Christians to intercede for peace and progress to reign in the land of Israel.
“We hereby regret any inconvenience this suspension might have caused you.”
