Airlifts of Lagos Christian Pilgrims to Jordan And Israel

The Lagos State Government has commenced the 2026 Christian pilgrimage exercise with the airlift of about 200 intending pilgrims to Jordan and Israel for a 10-day spiritual journey. The pilgrims departed Lagos at 1:15 a.m. aboard a chartered Southwind Airline aircraft, flight TAH 3103, heading first to Amman, Jordan.

The departure followed the issuance of travel documents and tickets at the Chapel of Christ the Light, Alausa, Ikeja. Addressing the pilgrims, the representative of the National Christian Pilgrims Commission (NCPC), Venerable Joseph O. O. Chibuogwu, PhD, advised them to remain courteous and truthful while responding to immigration and security officials throughout their journey.

Chibuogwu assured the pilgrims of comprehensive welfare support from the Lagos State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board and the NCPC, stressing that the pilgrimage is a sacred exercise that requires discipline, focus, and exemplary conduct. He cautioned pilgrims to properly secure purchased items in checked luggage to avoid travel complications.

On health and safety, the NCPC representative urged pilgrims to keep the medical team informed of any medications and to exercise caution in their diet. Emphasising personal responsibility, he advised pilgrims to consume only familiar foods to maintain good health throughout the journey.

Meanwhile, the Secretary of the Lagos State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board, Dr. Okudero Gbolabo Omoniyi, disclosed that the first batch of pilgrims would begin their pilgrimage activities in Jordan before proceeding to Israel. He added that while the first batch is expected to arrive in Jordan on Sunday, February 1, 2026, a second batch of pilgrims has been scheduled for airlift on February 11, 2026.