The Call was made during a Strategic engagement between NCPC and the State Chairmen and Executive Secretaries of the State pilgrimage Boards, held on 14th September, 2026 at the NCPC headquarters, where stake holders deliberated on strategies to strengthen the coordination of the pilgrimage exercise, prioritize the safety and welfare of pilgrims, improve collaboration and ensure smooth and spiritual rewarding pilgrimage exercise to Israel and Jordan.
Bishop Adegbite noted that the 2025 pilgrimage exercise was conducted during a challenging period due to the war in the Middle East, stressing that the experience had further underscored the need for the Commission to place the safety of pilgrims above every other consideration.
According to him, “the life of a Nigerian is bigger than money spent,” stressing that no financial consideration could outweigh the safety and lives of Nigerian pilgrims.
He assured that the Commission would continue to monitor the security situation in Israel before commencing airlift operations, noting that every necessary precaution would be taken to ensure that pilgrims are transported only when it is considered safe to do so.
“Safety of pilgrims is paramount. We will not succumb to pressure to fly during war. We will monitor the security situation in Israel before airlift,” he said.
The Executive Secretary called for prayers, cooperation and unity among the Commission, State Pilgrimage Boards and other stakeholders, noting that the collective commitment of all stakeholders would be critical to achieving a more successful pilgrimage exercise.
He expressed optimism that the Commission was only beginning to achieve greater milestones, assuring that everything humanly possible would be done to improve the pilgrimage experience.
“We will continue to remain united because we have God,” he added.
He disclosed that Jordan and Israel remain the destinations for the 2026 pilgrimage exercise, which is expected to commence in the first week of November and conclude in the last week of December 2026.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Conference of States, Bishop David Moradeyo, commended the Executive Secretary for his doggedness, courage and leadership during the 2025 pilgrimage exercise.
Bishop Moradeyo particularly appreciated Bishop Adegbite for his swift and decisive actions when pilgrims were caught up in the escalation of the Middle East war, describing his response as a demonstration of responsible leadership and commitment to the welfare of Nigerian pilgrims.
He also commended the Directors and staff of the Commission for their dedication and professionalism, describing them as good ambassadors of the NCPC who stood firm and worked tirelessly to ensure that all pilgrims returned safely to Nigeria.
The Chairman called for continued cooperation between the NCPC and State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Boards, stressing that unity and collective responsibility are necessary for the success of future pilgrimage exercises.
The meeting therefore served as a platform for the Commission and State pilgrimage leaders to review past experiences, strengthen collaboration and strategies towards a safe, orderly and spiritually rewarding 2026 pilgrimage exercise.
