The Plateau State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board has issued an official clarification regarding five Plateau pilgrims who were left behind in Jordan after being denied visas to enter Israel during the first batch of the 2026 pilgrimage.
In a press statement dated February 26, 2026, the Board Executive Secretary, Rev. Yusuf Wanson Bagu, explained that the affected pilgrims departed Nigeria on Sunday but were unable to proceed to Israel after the Israeli embassy declined their visa applications.
The Board stressed that the issuance of Israeli visas remains solely the prerogative of the Israeli embassy and not the responsibility of the National Christian Pilgrims Commission (NCPC).
However, it noted that timely communication from the commission to the state board would have enabled better preparation and early notification to the affected pilgrims.
According to the statement, the Board was not informed in advance about the visa situation, leaving it unable to promptly notify the pilgrims that their pilgrimage would terminate in Jordan. It said earlier communication could have reduced the distress and uncertainty experienced by the individuals.
The Board expressed deep empathy for the five pilgrims, describing their commitment to the sacred journey as commendable despite the disappointment caused by circumstances beyond their control.
While clarifying that it is not responsible for the visa denial, the Plateau Pilgrims Board announced that it has extended support to the stranded pilgrims. The Board disclosed that it has engaged Jordan Tours to provide accommodation for the pilgrims throughout their stay and to facilitate visits to significant religious sites in Jordan pending the return of other pilgrims from Israel.
It further stated that efforts have been intensified to provide necessary information, logistical assistance, and guidance to help the affected pilgrims navigate the situation.
The Board also noted that visa-related challenges are not unique to Plateau State or Nigeria, but are common experiences faced by travelers from many African countries due to the complexities of international travel and visa processing.
The statement called for enhanced collaboration and improved communication among relevant authorities, including visa-issuing embassies, to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The Executive Secretary of the Board, Rev. Yusuf Wanson Bagu, reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to working closely with the NCPC and other stakeholders to ensure that Nigerian pilgrims receive adequate support in fulfilling their spiritual obligations.
