General News
2025 EASTER PILGRIMAGE: NCPC BOSS, BISHOP ADEGBITE, INSPECTS PILGRIMS’ AIRCRAFT IN TURKEY
The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), Bishop Prof. Stephen Adegbite, has inspected the aircraft designated for the airlift of Nigerian pilgrims in Antalya, Turkey, ahead of the commencement of the postponed 2025 Easter Pilgrimage to Israel and Jordan.
This was disclosed in a statement signed by Celestine Toruka, Deputy Director and Head of Media and Public Relations at the Commission.
Bishop Adegbite arrived in Turkey on September 5, 2025, where he was received by Mr. Serkan Yazicioglu, Executive Director of Atlasjet, the NCPC-approved carrier for this year’s pilgrimage.
After the inspection, the NCPC boss reiterated that due process is central to his administration, stressing that the Commission will not compromise on established standards. He explained that the physical inspection was to ensure the aircraft meets all specifications outlined in the contractual agreement with the carrier.
He further reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to its corporate slogan, “Service and Satisfaction,” assuring that every effort will be made to fulfill that mandate. Bishop Adegbite expressed satisfaction with the aircraft and confidence in its capacity to transport Nigerian pilgrims safely and comfortably.
The NCPC helmsman also commended Mr. Yazicioglu for his professionalism and dedication to providing seamless service to Nigerian pilgrims.
In his response, Mr. Yazicioglu assured Bishop Adegbite that Atlasjet would deliver excellent service, emphasizing that the safety of pilgrims is their utmost priority. He disclosed that the Airbus aircraft, with a seating capacity of 350, is fully equipped with modern in-flight facilities and will be deployed to Nigeria before September 14, ahead of the inaugural flight.
With the inspection successfully concluded, the NCPC is set to officially flag off the 2025 Easter Pilgrimage on September 14, 2025, at the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, Owerri, Imo State.
