From Tongnaan Bawa, Jos
The Plateau State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board has issued an official clarification following reports that five Christian pilgrims from the state were left behind in Jordan after being denied visas to enter Israel for the 2026 pilgrimage.
In a statement dated February 26, 2026, and signed by the Executive Secretary, Rev. Yusuf Wanson Bagu, the Board explained that the affected pilgrims were part of the first batch that departed Nigeria on Sunday but were unable to proceed to Israel due to visa issues.
According to the Board, the issuance of Israeli visas is strictly the responsibility of the Israeli Embassy and not the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC) or the state board.
“It is important to clarify that the issuance of visas to Israel is solely the prerogative of the Israeli embassy. The NCPC plays no role in this decision-making process,” the statement said.
However, the Board expressed concern over what it described as a lack of timely communication regarding the visa development.
“Unfortunately, we were not informed of these developments in a timely manner, which left us unable to adequately prepare our response or communicate the necessary details to the individuals affected.
Had we been informed in advance, we could have reached out to the pilgrims promptly to let them know that their pilgrimage would terminate in Jordan,” the Board stated.
The five pilgrims are currently in Jordan, where the Board says arrangements have been made to ensure their welfare pending the return of other pilgrims from Israel.
“We have extended our heartfelt support to the individuals left behind. We have made commitment by reaching out to the Jordan Tours to accommodate them throughout their stay as well as engaging them in visiting some significant places until those in Israel return,” Rev. Bagu said.
The Board emphasized that it is not responsible for the visa denial but has intensified efforts to provide assistance, including accommodation and guidance on next steps.
“We have intensified efforts in every possible way, whether through providing information, arranging accommodations, or helping them navigate their next steps,” the statement added.
While expressing deep empathy for the affected pilgrims, the Board noted that visa-related challenges are not unique to Plateau State or Nigeria.
“The challenges faced by the five Plateau State pilgrims are not unique to our state or Nigeria, but a common experience shared by many African nations and countries worldwide. The complexities of visa processing and international travel can affect anyone,” the statement read.
The Board called for improved collaboration and communication among relevant authorities to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
“We urge the NCPC to improve its communication protocols to ensure that all pertinent information is relayed effectively.
This will prevent such oversights in the future and better equip us to support our pilgrims,” Rev. Bagu said.
Reaffirming its commitment, the Board pledged to continue working with the NCPC and other stakeholders to ensure that Nigerian pilgrims receive adequate support in fulfilling their spiritual obligations.