By Queen Kunde
The Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC) on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, signed a contractual agreement with selected pilgrimage service providers for the 2025 pilgrimage exercise.
The landmark event, held at the NCPC Corporate Headquarters in Abuja, was presided over by the Executive Secretary of the Commission, Bishop Stephen Adegbite, who signed on behalf of the Commission alongside one air carrier and seven ground handlers. These providers were selected after a rigorous bidding and evaluation process.
Bishop Adegbite praised God for the success of the previous pilgrimage cycle, themed “Pilgrimage of Renewed Hope for Total Restoration.” He called for enhanced service delivery in the upcoming season, emphasizing efficiency, organization, and spiritual impact.
“The last exercise was a testimony of divine restoration,” he said. “But there is always room for improvement. This year, we must aim higher and deliver a pilgrimage that reflects excellence and order.”
According to Bishop Adegbite, the 2025 Easter pilgrimage will begin in July, while the Main Pilgrimage is scheduled to commence in November 2025 and continue through February 2026. Destinations include Israel, Jordan, Rome, Greece, and Turkey.
He extended his appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support of Christian pilgrimages, as well as to the Commission’s Board, management, and staff for their dedication.
Also speaking at the event, the Chairman of the NCPC Board, Rt. Rev. Msgr. Cletus Gotan, lauded the performance of the service providers during the previous pilgrimage and expressed hope that this year’s operations would be even smoother. He echoed the gratitude to President Tinubu, describing his support as “crucial and commendable.”
In response, the service providers pledged to uphold the highest standards, praising the Commission for its transparent and professional handling of the bidding process.
The agreement signing marks the official green light for preparations to kick into high gear for what the Commission hopes will be its most impactful pilgrimage season yet.
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