Adegbite also stated that pilgrimage to the Holy Land would commence soon, as preparations were in top gear and due process was being followed.
This was contained in a statement signed by the Deputy Director and Head, Media and Public Relations, NCPC, Celestine Toruka, on Wednesday.
The NCPC boss had earlier hinted at the bid for the handlers and carriers when he met with the chairmen and secretaries of State Pilgrims Welfare Boards on February 15.
He said the commission would advertise the expression of interest in local and international media for prospective service providers to bid for the 2024 pilgrimage exercise.
As contained in the statement, the secretary announced the date for the opening bid when executives of the FCT Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board paid a courtesy visit to his office in Abuja on Tuesday.
While appreciating the board members for their visit, marking his first month as the commission’s secretary, he gave assurances that the NCPC would not compromise standards, and ensure that pilgrims received value for their money.
“He disclosed that the pilgrimage would commence soon as preparations are in top gear as due process is being followed. He further disclosed that the Bid Opening for ground handlers and Air Carriers is scheduled to hold on 11th March 2024 at the NCPC corporate office in Abuja.
“He assured them that the commission would not compromise standards and ensure that the pilgrims receive value for their money and that their safety and comfort are guaranteed”, the statement read.
Speaking on the hardship in the country, Adegbite called for caution, restraint and understanding, stating that the situation would soon be a thing of the past.
“He explained that the current hardship being experienced in the country is a global recession which is not peculiar to Nigeria alone. He, therefore, called for caution, restraint and understanding as the situation would soon be a thing of the past,” the statement added.
Speaking earlier, the Director, FCT Christians Pilgrims Welfare Board, Mrs Rahila Baita, stated that the purpose of the visit was to congratulate the secretary on his appointment while promising the support and assistance of the Board, saying, “We are always available when you need the assistance of the board.”
