NCPC Boss Inspects Aircraft in Turkey Ahead of 2025 Easter Pilgrimage

By Chinedu Echianu

The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), Bishop Prof. Stephen Adegbite, has carried out a physical inspection of the aircraft designated for the 2025 Easter Pilgrimage in Antalya, Turkey.

NCPC spokesman, Celestine Toruka in a press statement made available to Democracy Radio said Bishop Adegbite, who arrived in Turkey on September 5, was received by the Executive Director of Atlasjet, Mr. Serkan Yazicioglu.

According to the statement, Atlasjet is the airline approved by the Commission to handle the airlift of Nigerian Christian pilgrims to Israel and Jordan this year.

Speaking after the exercise, the NCPC boss emphasized that the inspection was in line with the Commission’s strict adherence to due process and safety standards, noting that it is important to confirm that the aircraft complied with contractual specifications before deployment.

“The physical inspection of the pilgrims’ aircraft is necessary to ensure that the aircraft meets the required specifications as codified in the contractual agreement between the Commission and the air carrier. We cannot afford to compromise our set standards,” Bishop Adegbite said.

He expressed satisfaction with the aircraft, describing it as safe and comfortable for pilgrims, while reaffirming the NCPC’s commitment to its guiding philosophy of “Service and Satisfaction.” He also thanked Mr. Yazicioglu for Atlasjet’s expertise and dedication to delivering seamless service.

On his part, the Atlasjet chief assured the NCPC of efficient service, stressing that safety remained their top priority. He revealed that the aircraft, an Airbus with a 350-passenger capacity and modern in-flight facilities, would be deployed to Nigeria before September 14 for the commencement of the airlift.

With the successful inspection concluded, the NCPC is set to officially flag off the delayed 2025 Easter Pilgrimage on September 14, at the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri, Imo State.