Nigeria has suspended all Christian pilgrimage trips to Israel with immediate effect, citing the deteriorating security situation in the Middle East.
The decision was announced by the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC) following recent developments in Israel, including the declaration of a state of emergency.
NCPC Executive Secretary Bishop Stephen Adegbite said the suspension is aimed at protecting Nigerian pilgrims and applies to both government-organized and privately arranged trips. Pilgrimage activities will remain on hold until security conditions improve.
The commission called for prayers for peace in Jerusalem and the broader region. It also confirmed that its 2025 main pilgrimage to Israel and Jordan has concluded, with the final group returning safely to Murtala Muhammed International Airport on March 3.
U.S embassy shuts down visa services in Abuja over looming protest threat
The United States Embassy in Nigeria has cancelled all visa appointments scheduled for Wednesday, March 4, 2026, citing credible threats of protests in Abuja linked to rising tensions between the United States and Iran.
In a statement released Wednesday, the embassy warned of potential demonstrations in the Federal Capital Territory and urged American citizens to stay indoors.