NCPC Extends Contracts with Pilgrimage Service Providers, Prioritises Safety of Nigerian Pilgrims

The Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC) has extended its contract agreement with accredited pilgrimage service providers for the 2026 Christian Pilgrimage Exercise to Israel and Jordan, reaffirming its commitment to ensuring the safety, welfare and satisfaction of Nigerian pilgrims.

The contract extension agreement was signed on Monday at the Commission's Corporate Headquarters in Abuja, following the approval of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) and in compliance with due process.

The agreement was signed by the Executive Secretary of the NCPC, Bishop Stephen Adegbite, alongside the Commission's accredited air carrier and seven ground handling companies, with the aim of guaranteeing seamless pilgrimage operations and improved service delivery during the 2026 pilgrimage season.

Speaking during the ceremony, Adegbite expressed gratitude to God for His faithfulness and appreciated President Bola Tinubu, the Chairman and members of the NCPC Board, the Commission's management and staff for their continued support in repositioning the Commission for greater efficiency.

He reiterated that the Commission remains guided by its principle of "Service and Satisfaction," stressing that the safety and welfare of Nigerian pilgrims would always take precedence over every other consideration.

Addressing concerns over the security situation in the Middle East, the Executive Secretary disclosed that the Commission has continued to closely monitor developments in Israel and neighbouring countries before resuming pilgrimage operations.

According to him, he will personally undertake an assessment visit to the Holy Land to evaluate the prevailing security situation before approving the movement of pilgrims.

He maintained that while the Commission remains committed to facilitating pilgrimage, it would not compromise the safety of Nigerians, insisting that every pilgrim's life is invaluable.

Adegbite also commended the Federal Government and the Commission's accredited air carrier for the successful evacuation of 523 Nigerians stranded during the February 8 Middle East conflict. 

He praised all stakeholders, particularly the air carrier, for their cooperation and dedication throughout the rescue operation.

The Executive Secretary further lauded the accredited service providers for their professionalism and commitment, urging them to sustain and improve the quality of services provided to pilgrims.

He equally acknowledged the Bureau of Public Procurement, the Commission's Legal Department, Procurement Unit and members of staff for their contributions to the successful completion of the contract extension process.

Representing the Chairman of the Commission, Prof. Cletus Gotan, the Board Member representing the North Central, Rev. Simon Dolly, commended the Executive Secretary, management and staff for promoting transparency, accountability and inclusiveness in the administration of Christian pilgrimage.

He described the cordial relationship between the Commission and its service providers as evidence of purposeful leadership, mutual respect and effective collaboration.

Rev. Dolly also appreciated the air carrier and ground handling companies for their professionalism, particularly during the recent security challenges in the Middle East, and urged all stakeholders to continue working in unity to ensure successful pilgrimage operations.

He encouraged continuous improvement despite the Commission's achievements and called for prayers for President Bola Tinubu, lasting peace in Nigeria and the Holy Land, as well as the successful conduct of future pilgrimage exercises.

The Board representative reaffirmed the Commission's commitment to supporting policies and initiatives that would strengthen its mandate while enhancing the spiritual experience and welfare of Nigerian pilgrims.

Speaking on behalf of the service providers, their representatives commended the NCPC leadership for maintaining a transparent and inclusive working relationship and pledged their continued commitment to delivering safe, efficient and quality services.

The ceremony culminated in the formal signing of the contract extension agreement, with both the Commission and its accredited service providers renewing their commitment to ensuring safe, seamless and spiritually rewarding Christian pilgrimages for Nigerians.