NCPC Commences Screening for Intending Pilgrims Ahead of 2025 Main Pilgrimage to Israel and Jordan

By our Correspondent

The Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC) has begun the screening exercise for Christian faithful preparing for the 2025 Main Pilgrimage to Israel and Jordan.
This was disclosed in a statement issued by Celestine Toruka, Deputy Director and Head of Media and Public Relations of the Commission.

Speaking during the screening exercise held in Ikeja, Lagos, on 27th November 2025 for intending pilgrims from Lagos State, the Executive Secretary of the NCPC, Bishop Prof. Stephen Adegbite, reassured participants of the peaceful situation in Israel, affirming that they would be safe throughout their holy pilgrimage.

He highlighted that the medical screening was essential to determine the health status of all intending pilgrims. Bishop Adegbite further noted that President Bola Tinubu has demonstrated exceptional support for both Christian and Muslim pilgrimages—more than any other President in the nation’s history. He, therefore, urged the pilgrims to continue praying for the success of the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

The NCPC helmsman reiterated the Commission’s commitment to achieving zero abscondment during pilgrimage, stressing that the agency maintains a strict stance against such occurrences. He added that all necessary mechanisms have been instituted to reduce abscondment to the barest minimum.

Also speaking at the event, the Board Secretary of the Lagos State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board, Dr. Omoniyi Okudero, underscored the significance of the medical and physical screening, describing it as a vital part of the preparation process ahead of the airlift of pilgrims to Israel and Jordan.

Dr. Okudero explained that the exercise was conducted in partnership with the NCPC and other relevant security and government agencies responsible for verifying travel documents. He added that the administrative segment of the screening was aimed at validating pilgrims’ travel documents and enlightening them on expectations during the pilgrimage.

He further stated that the screening would enable the medical team to determine the appropriate medications required to cater to the pilgrims’ health needs. Dr. Okudero encouraged all intending pilgrims to adhere to the rules and guidelines of the holy lands and to conduct themselves as worthy ambassadors of Lagos State and Nigeria.