The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria has successfully concluded the outbound airlift of Nigerian pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj exercise ahead of the Saudi Arabian deadline for inbound pilgrimage flights.
In a statement issued by its management on Thursday, the commission confirmed that the final outbound flight departed at 10:44 am on 21 May, bringing an end to the 18-day airlift operation which began on 3 May.
According to the commission, the last flight was operated by Max Air and conveyed pilgrims from Zamfara State through the Gusau International Airport to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
NAHCON disclosed that a total of 98 outbound flights were conducted during the exercise, averaging about 5 flights per day.
Nigeria was allocated a total quota of 50,000 pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj exercise, including 9,750 slots reserved for licensed tour operators, operational support personnel and statutory officials.
The commission stated that approximately 39,000 pilgrims under the government quota, excluding officials and government representatives, were successfully transported to Saudi Arabia for the pilgrimage.
It, however, explained that some intending pilgrims may be unable to travel due to unavoidable circumstances, such as death or illness, after their visa is issued.
NAHCON expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for what it described as the orderly, peaceful and successful coordination of the airlift exercise involving various stakeholders.
The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the commission, Ismail Abba Yusuf, commended the cooperation and commitment shown by board members, staff, pilgrims’ welfare boards, licensed tour operators, security agencies, air carriers, and operational committees.
He also praised Nigerian pilgrims for their patience and understanding throughout the exercise.
The commission further appreciated the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima for ensuring the safety and welfare of Nigerian pilgrims despite prevailing global socio-political challenges.
NAHCON urged pilgrims currently in the Holy Land to remain law-abiding and conduct themselves responsibly throughout the Hajj rites.
According to the commission, Hajj represents a sacred spiritual obligation that requires patience, sacrifice, discipline and devotion.
Pilgrims were advised to comply strictly with Saudi regulations governing Hajj operations and to avoid actions that could attract sanctions or create difficulties for themselves and others.
The commission also reassured pilgrims that arrangements had been concluded and would be closely monitored to guarantee their welfare and comfort during the pilgrimage.
Meanwhile, NAHCON announced that preparations for the return flight operations are ongoing, with the first inbound flights scheduled to commence on 3 June 2026.
It added that details of the return schedules would be communicated in due course.
The commission further disclosed that preparations for the 2027 Hajj exercise would begin immediately after the conclusion of the current pilgrimage season as part of efforts to improve service delivery and consolidate on the successes already recorded.
NAHCON prayed for the acceptance of pilgrims’ Hajj and their safe return to Nigeria.
