The Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission has announced that the long-delayed 2025 Easter pilgrimage will commence on September 14 at the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, Owerri, Imo State.
The Executive Secretary of the Commission, Bishop Stephen Adegbite, confirmed this in a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja and signed by the NCPC Deputy Director and Head of Media, Mr. Celestine Toruka.
Adegbite explained that the exercise, which had earlier been suspended due to rising tensions in the Middle East, would now cover Israel and Jordan.
He assured intending pilgrims that all necessary measures had been taken to ensure a smooth and safe journey.
“Ahead of the official commencement of the Easter Pilgrimage, the Commission has made efforts and taken steps to make it seamless and successful,” Adegbite said.
According to him, part of the preparations included a physical inspection of the aircraft that would convey pilgrims, carried out in Antalya, Turkey.
The Executive Secretary noted that Atlasjet, the airline contracted for the pilgrimage, had met the required standards.
“The Commission cannot afford to compromise on its set standards. The inspection of the pilgrims’ aircraft is necessary to ensure that it meets the required specifications as codified in the contractual agreement between the Commission and the carrier,” he stated.
He further stressed that his administration would strictly adhere to due process, adding that the NCPC’s slogan of “Service and Satisfaction” would be implemented in full.
The Executive Director of Atlasjet, Mr. Serkan Yazicioglu, assured the NCPC that the airline was fully prepared for the assignment.
“The safety of Nigerian pilgrims has been, and will continue to be, our priority. The Airbus aircraft with 350 seating capacity is technically top-notch with modern in-flight facilities. It will be deployed to Nigeria before September 14 for the inaugural flight,” Yazicioglu said.
Adegbite expressed confidence that the arrangements would guarantee the comfort and safety of the pilgrims, commending the airline’s commitment to excellence.
