The Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC) has announced plans to explore Christian Holy sites in Turkey. This was disclosed by the Executive Secretary of the Commission, Bishop Stephen Adegbite, on October 8, 2024, during a meeting with a Turkish delegation from Turquaz Group and Afrosum Faith Tourism at the NCPC headquarters in Abuja.
Bishop Adegbite underscored the historical and religious significance of Turkey to Christianity, noting that the country is home to approximately 60% of the events recorded in the Old Testament. He emphasized Turkey’s pivotal role in making biblical history tangible for modern-day Christians. "The place of Turkey in the history of the church is very vital," the NCPC boss said, stressing the country's importance for religious pilgrimage. "Turkey makes the Bible real."
The visit marked a significant step toward fostering a robust partnership between the NCPC and the Turkish delegation aimed at facilitating pilgrimages to Turkey. Bishop Adegbite expressed his optimism about the collaboration, revealing that many Nigerian Christians are eager to visit the Holy sites in Turkey. “For us at NCPC, we are open and ready to partner with credible organizations. We will not cheat you, we will not cheat anybody, and you will not cheat us or the government of Nigeria,” he affirmed, stressing the importance of transparency in the Commission’s dealings with its partners.
He further stated that NCPC's mission includes taking pilgrims to key biblical sites around the world. “It is part of our assignment to take our people to important Holy Sites around the world to make the Bible real,” he reiterated.
The leader of the Turkish delegation and Vice Chairman of Turquaz Group and Afrosum Faith Tourism, Mr. Naci Tamer, highlighted Turkey’s significance to the Christian faith. He stated that 60% of the Holy places mentioned in the Bible are located in Turkey, and encouraged the NCPC to explore the sites. "We are ready to provide all the Biblical sites, but NCPC will decide on their suitability," Tamer remarked. He also requested that the exploration of the sites be expedited to maximize the opportunities for Christian pilgrims.
In addition to exploring religious sites, Tamer revealed that the visit to Turkey would offer opportunities for business forums, interaction with manufacturers, and medical tourism. As part of their broader partnership plans, he hinted that Turquaz Group intends to establish a diagnostic center in Abuja as part of its value-added services to Nigerian pilgrims.
The meeting between the NCPC and the Turkish delegation marks the beginning of a strategic partnership aimed at enhancing the pilgrimage experience for Nigerian Christians, while also contributing to economic and medical development through tourism and healthcare initiatives.
Signed,
Celestine Toruka
Deputy Director and Head, Media and Public Relations
Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission
October 8, 2024.
