US/Israel – Iran War: ‎Nigeria Suspends Christian Pilgrimages to Israel 

‎The Federal Government has suspended all Christian pilgrimages to Israel and the occupied West Bank with immediate effect, citing growing security concerns linked to the intensifying conflict in the Middle East.

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‎The decision was announced by the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), the statutory body responsible for coordinating Christian pilgrimages from Nigeria. In a statement, the commission said the move was taken to prioritise the “safety and comfort” of Nigerian pilgrims as tensions continue to rise across the region.

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‎The development follows a sharp escalation in hostilities involving Israel, Iran and allied forces, triggering widespread airspace closures and flight cancellations across several Middle Eastern countries. The security situation has disrupted international travel, leaving thousands stranded and forcing governments to review travel advisories.

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‎According to Rev. John Hayab of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), approximately 600 Nigerian pilgrims who were in Israel and the West Bank when the conflict intensified have since been evacuated. He disclosed that the pilgrims were moved to Jordan before being safely airlifted back to Nigeria.

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‎The suspension affects all state-sponsored pilgrimages as well as trips organised by private tour operators. Officials indicated that the ban will remain in place until stability returns to the region.

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‎Each year, thousands of Nigerian Christians undertake pilgrimages to biblical sites in Jerusalem, Bethlehem and Nazareth. These journeys, often subsidised or coordinated by state governments, form a significant component of the country’s religious calendar. For many faithful, the pilgrimage represents a once-in-a-lifetime spiritual obligation, with some saving for years to make the trip.

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‎Easter, which is approaching in the coming weeks, traditionally marks one of the peak periods for visits to the Holy Land, making the timing of the suspension particularly impactful.

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‎Meanwhile, the travel disruptions have also affected Nigerian Muslims planning to perform Umrah in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. Several intending pilgrims have reportedly been stranded following flight cancellations linked to the regional crisis.

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‎In Kano, some travellers who had completed travel arrangements were unable to depart after flights were halted at the last minute. Travel operators say the uncertainty has created logistical and financial challenges for intending pilgrims.

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‎Unlike the annual Hajj pilgrimage, Umrah can be performed at any time of the year, making it a flexible but equally significant spiritual exercise for many Muslims.

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‎With tensions still high and airspace restrictions in place across parts of the Middle East, Nigerian authorities say they will continue to monitor developments closely before reviewing the suspension.