The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), Mr. John Kennedy Opara has assured Nigerians of the safety of the Pilgrims in Israel who are currently performing the Holy Pilgrimage. The NCPC boss disclosed this recently in Abuja while briefing newsmen in the wake of the face off between Israeli authorities and the Palestinians.

Mr. Opara explained that the clarification became necessary in order to allay the fears being entertained by families whose relations are on pilgrimage to Israel.

He stated that in line with the calendar of activities of the Commission, the NCPC flagged off the airlift of intending pilgrims to Israel, Rome and Greece on 25th October, in Lagos with about 314 pilgrims for the inaugural flight.

According to the No. 1 Pilgrim Officer of the Federation, since the flag off of this year's pilgrimage operation, close to 5,000 pilgrims had been airlifted so far and about 4,000 have returned home safely. In the words of the Executive Secretary, "we want to emphasize that our pilgrims are safe and secure". He added, "We want to make sure that they are spiritually fulfilled and satisfied".

Mr. Opara further assured Nigerians with these soothing words: "I want to tell Nigerians that everything is under control, I will continue to do what it takes to make sure that no lives were lost", he stressed.