The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria has completed the outbound airlift of Nigerian pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj exercise, transporting more than 40,000 pilgrims to Saudi Arabia within 18 days.
NAHCON disclosed this in a statement issued on Thursday, noting that the airlift operation, which commenced on May 3, ended on May 21 with the final Max Air flight conveying pilgrims from Zamfara State from Gusau International Airport to Saudi Arabia.
According to the commission, a total of 98 outbound flights were operated during the exercise, averaging five flights daily.
It stated that 40,250 pilgrims who secured visas through the commission were successfully airlifted for the annual pilgrimage.
The commission added that a comprehensive breakdown of the pilgrims and flight operations would be released later.
NAHCON described the exercise as peaceful, orderly and successful, attributing the achievement to collaboration among stakeholders involved in the operation.
The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NAHCON, Amb. Ismail Abba Yusuf, commended board members, staff, state pilgrims’ welfare boards, licensed tour operators, security agencies, operational committees and airline operators for ensuring the smooth completion of the exercise.
He also praised Nigerian pilgrims for their patience and cooperation throughout the process.
The commission further acknowledged the support of President Bola Tinubu and the supervision of Vice-President Kashim Shettima, saying their guidance contributed significantly to the success of the operation despite global socio-political challenges.
NAHCON urged pilgrims currently in Saudi Arabia to conduct themselves responsibly and comply strictly with regulations guiding Hajj operations in the kingdom.
It noted that the Hajj exercise requires patience, discipline, sacrifice and devotion, warning pilgrims against actions capable of attracting sanctions or creating difficulties for others.
The commission also advised pilgrims to continue cooperating with officials and Saudi authorities during the pilgrimage.
According to the statement, arrangements for the Masha’ir operations covering the core Hajj rites in Mina, Arafat and Muzdalifah had been concluded and would be closely monitored to ensure the welfare and comfort of Nigerian pilgrims.
NAHCON further disclosed that preparations for the return of pilgrims to Nigeria were already underway.
It stated that inbound flight operations are expected to commence on June 3, adding that details of return schedules would be communicated to pilgrims and stakeholders in due course.
The commission said planning for the 2027 Hajj exercise would begin immediately after the conclusion of the current pilgrimage to improve service delivery and consolidate on this year’s successes.
The yearly Hajj pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia is one of the five pillars of Islam and attracts millions of Muslims across the world annually.
