By Peter Omopo
The Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC) has fixed September 14, 2025 for the commencement of the delayed Easter pilgrimage to Israel and Jordan. The inaugural flight will take off from the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri, Imo State.
Executive Secretary of the Commission, Bishop Stephen Adegbite, disclosed this in a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja by NCPC’s Deputy Director and Head of Media and Public Relations, Mr. Celestine Toruka.
The pilgrimage had earlier been suspended in August following heightened tensions in the Middle East.
Adegbite said the Commission has since taken measures to ensure a smooth and safe exercise, including a recent inspection of the pilgrims’ aircraft in Antalya, Turkey. He was received during the inspection by Atlasjet’s Executive Director, Mr. Serkan Yazicioglu.
Atlasjet, an approved NCPC air carrier for 2025, will handle the airlift of pilgrims. Adegbite explained that the physical inspection was conducted to ensure the aircraft met all contractual and safety specifications.
“The Commission cannot afford to compromise on its set standards. Service and satisfaction remain our guiding philosophy,” Adegbite said, adding that he was satisfied with the aircraft’s condition.
Yazicioglu, in turn, assured that Atlasjet would deliver seamless service, stressing that the Airbus aircraft, with a seating capacity of 350, is equipped with modern in-flight facilities to guarantee safety and comfort.
He further confirmed that the aircraft will be deployed to Nigeria ahead of the September 14 inaugural flight.
