The Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC) has signed a contract extension agreement with its accredited pilgrimage service providers for the 2026 Christian Pilgrimage Exercise to Israel and Jordan.
The agreement, which is aimed at ensuring seamless pilgrimage operations and efficient service delivery during the 2026 pilgrimage season, was signed at the Commission’s Corporate Headquarters in Abuja on 27th July, 2026.
This was contained in a statement by Celestine Ogugua Toruka, Director, Media and Public Relations, NCPC.
The Executive Secretary of NCPC, Bishop Prof. Stephen Adegbite, signed the agreement with the Commission’s accredited air carrier and seven ground handling companies following the successful extension of the contracts in line with due process and the approval of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP).
Speaking at the ceremony, Bishop Prof. Adegbite gave glory to God for His faithfulness and appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Chairman and members of the NCPC Board, Management and staff of the Commission for their unwavering support and cooperation, which have continued to reposition the Commission for greater efficiency.
The Executive Secretary reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to its guiding principle of “Service and Satisfaction,” stressing that the safety and welfare of Nigerian pilgrims remain the Commission’s highest priority.
Commenting on the current security situation in the Middle East, Bishop Prof. Adegbite explained that the Commission has continued to monitor developments in Israel and neighbouring countries before resuming pilgrimage operations.
He disclosed that he would personally undertake an assessment visit to the Holy Land to ascertain the security situation before approving the resumption of pilgrim movements.
He noted that while the Commission is committed to facilitating pilgrimage, it will never compromise the safety of Nigerian pilgrims, emphasizing that every life matters.
Bishop Adegbite also commended the Federal Government and the Air carrier for the successful evacuation of 523 Nigerians stranded during the February, 8th Middle East conflict and appreciated all stakeholders, particularly the Commission’s accredited air carrier, for their invaluable support and cooperation throughout the rescue operation.
He further lauded the accredited service providers for their professionalism, cooperation and dedication to duty, urging them to sustain and continually improve the quality of services rendered to Nigerian pilgrims.
The Executive Secretary equally appreciated the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), the Commission’s Legal Department, Procurement Unit and all members of staff whose collective efforts ensured the successful completion of the contract extension process.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Commission Prof. Msgnr. Cletus Gotan represented by the Board Member representing the North Central, Rev. Dr. Simon Dolly, commended the Executive Secretary, Management and staff of the Commission for entrenching transparency, accountability and inclusiveness in the administration of Christian pilgrimage. He praised the cordial relationship between the Commission and its accredited service providers, describing it as a reflection of purposeful leadership, mutual respect and effective collaboration.
Rev. Dr. Dolly expressed appreciation to the air carrier and ground handling companies for their steadfast support and professionalism, particularly amid the recent security challenges in the Middle East.
He urged the service providers to continue working together in unity and harmony, emphasizing that cooperation, trust and collective responsibility remain essential for the successful conduct of Christian pilgrimage.
He further encouraged all stakeholders to continue striving for excellence, noting that while the Commission has recorded remarkable achievements, there is always room for improvement. He also called on stakeholders to continue praying for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and for lasting peace in Nigeria and the Holy Land to ensure the safe and successful conduct of pilgrimage exercises.
The Board representative reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to supporting policies and initiatives that will strengthen the Commission’s mandate and enhance the spiritual experience and welfare of Nigerian pilgrims.
Speaking on behalf of the service providers, their representatives commended the Executive Secretary and the Management of NCPC for sustaining a transparent, inclusive and cordial working relationship. They pledged their continued commitment to delivering efficient, safe and quality services to Nigerian pilgrims.
The high point of the event was the formal signing of the contract extension agreement and a renewed commitment by both the Commission and its service providers to continue working together in promoting safe, seamless and spiritually rewarding Christian pilgrimages.
