NCPC signs contract extension with pilgrimage service providers

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. This agreement, 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 July 27, 2026.

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 accordance with due process and the approval of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP).

During the ceremony, Bishop Prof. Adegbite praised God for His faithfulness and expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, as well as the Chairman and members of the NCPC Board, and the Commission’s management and staff for their unwavering support and cooperation, which have continued to enhance the Commission’s efficiency.

The Executive Secretary reaffirmed the Commission’s dedication to its guiding principle of “Service and Satisfaction,” emphasizing that the safety and welfare of Nigerian pilgrims remain the Commission’s top priority.

In light of the current security situation in the Middle East, Bishop Prof. Adegbite explained that the Commission has been closely monitoring developments in Israel and neighboring countries before resuming pilgrimage operations. He announced plans to personally visit the Holy Land to assess the security situation before authorizing the resumption of pilgrim movements.

He emphasized that while the Commission is committed to facilitating pilgrimage, it will never compromise the safety of Nigerian pilgrims, reiterating that every life matters.

Bishop Adegbite also commended the Federal Government and the air carrier for successfully evacuating 523 Nigerians stranded during the conflict in the Middle East on February 8th, as well as all stakeholders, particularly the Commission’s accredited air carrier, for their invaluable support throughout the rescue operation.

Additionally, he praised the accredited service providers for their professionalism, cooperation, and dedication to duty, urging them to maintain and continuously improve the quality of services provided to Nigerian pilgrims.

The Executive Secretary expressed appreciation to the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), the Commission’s Legal Department, the Procurement Unit, and all staff members 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 from the North Central region, Rev. Dr. Simon Dolly, commended the Executive Secretary, management, and staff of the Commission for promoting transparency, accountability, and inclusiveness in the administration of Christian pilgrimage. He praised the strong 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 gratitude to the air carrier and ground handling companies for their steadfast support and professionalism, especially amid recent security challenges in the Middle East. He urged the service providers to continue working together in unity and harmony, stressing that cooperation, trust, and collective responsibility are essential for the successful conduct of Christian pilgrimage.

He encouraged all stakeholders to strive for excellence, noting that while the Commission has made remarkable achievements, there is always room for improvement. He also called upon stakeholders to continue praying for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and for lasting peace in Nigeria and the Holy Land to ensure the safe and successful execution of pilgrimage exercises.

The Board representative reiterated the Board’s commitment to support 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 maintaining a transparent, inclusive, and collaborative working relationship. They pledged their continued commitment to providing efficient, safe, and quality services to Nigerian pilgrims.

The highlight of the event was the formal signing of the contract extension agreement, signifying a renewed commitment by both the Commission and its service providers to work together in promoting safe, seamless, and spiritually rewarding Christian pilgrimages.