Niger Launches Hajj Airlift with 345 Pilgrims Departing

Niger began its Hajj airlift with the first batch of 345 pilgrims flying to Madinah, Saudi Arabia, on a Flyna Airlines flight that departed from Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport in Minna at 10:15 PM on a late Monday night. The group comprised 227 males and 118 females from the Chanchaga and Borgu local government areas.

Governor Moham Umaru Bago addressed the pilgrims before their departure, advising them to act as good ambassadors for the state and to safeguard their belongings by not accepting items from strangers. He encouraged them to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and prayed for a safe journey and successful Hajj.

Alhaji Yusuf Nuhu, the Amirul Hajj for Niger in 2026, expressed satisfaction with the level of preparation and urged pilgrims to obey Saudi Arabian laws. A total of 2,281 pilgrims are expected to participate in the 2026 Hajj, with six scheduled flights planned.