NAHCON Completes Return Airlift for 2026 Hajj Pilgrims

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has completed the return airlift of 38,000 Nigerian pilgrims from the 2026 Hajj exercise, as confirmed by spokesperson Hajia Fatimah Usara. The final flight, which transported pilgrims from Zamfara, is expected to arrive in Nigeria on Tuesday.

This marks the conclusion of the major national operation involving the airlift of pilgrims to Saudi Arabia. However, 12 Nigerian pilgrims are currently receiving treatment for various health conditions in different hospitals in Saudi Arabia, and NAHCON is closely monitoring their situation to facilitate their safe return once discharged.

Usara acknowledged the challenges faced during the operation and emphasized the valuable lessons learned, which will be applied to improve future Hajj operations. Preparations for the 2027 Hajj exercise have already commenced, with strict compliance to official preparatory documents.

NAHCON Chairman Amb Ismail Yusuf expressed gratitude to Allah for the overall success of the 2026 Hajj and appreciated the support from President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima.