The Anambra state government has announced the commencement of sales of forms for the 2026 pilgrimage airlifting operations. This was made known by the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Chukwuma Soludo on Pilgrims Affairs, Mr Odira Ezeh, in an interview with newsmen. Ezeh stated that the airlifting of qualified and eligible pilgrims would take place from the first week of November to the last week of December, 2026.
According to Ezeh, the decision to commence airlifting operations was reached at a meeting of pilgrimage leaders and managers held on September 14, 2026, in Abuja. The meeting, chaired by the executive secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission (NCPC), Bishop Stephen Adegbite, brought together the NCPC and state pilgrimage welfare boards. The council discussed recent developments in the pilgrimage sector to evolve a more seamless administrative protocol.
Ezeh revealed that Israel and Jordan have been approved as this year's pilgrimage destinations. He assured that the life and safety of pilgrims were given priority attention during the conversation. The Senior Special Assistant expressed optimism that the robust relationship between the Anambra pilgrims office and the NCPC would yield positive results for intending pilgrims in the state.
Ezeh called on qualified and intending pilgrims in Anambra state to take advantage of the existing relationship between the pilgrims office and the NCPC. He emphasized that the administration of Governor Soludo is committed to ensuring the growth of the religious tourism sector in the state. The governor's deputy, Dr Onyekachukwu Ibezim, was also commended for his effective supervision and support.
The sales of forms for the 2026 pilgrimage airlifting operations have commenced in Anambra state. Ezeh announced that more details about the process would be released in the coming days. Intending pilgrims are advised to take advantage of this opportunity to participate in the airlifting operations.
Ezeh expressed gratitude to Governor Soludo for creating a conducive political environment for the successful administration of pilgrim affairs. He also appreciated the governor's deputy for his support and supervision. The Anambra state government is committed to ensuring a seamless pilgrimage experience for its citizens.
The 2026 pilgrimage airlifting operations are expected to be a success, given the collaboration between the Anambra pilgrims office and the NCPC. Qualified and eligible pilgrims are encouraged to participate in the airlifting operations, which will take place from November to December 2026.
Key points
- The Anambra state government has approved the sale of forms for the 2026 pilgrimage airlifting operations.
- The airlifting operations will take place from the first week of November to the last week of December, 2026.
- Israel and Jordan have been approved as this year's pilgrimage destinations.
