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Hajj 2026: NAHCON Finalises Outbound Airlift Operations

by admin on | 2026-05-22 15:36:56

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Hajj 2026: NAHCON Finalises Outbound Airlift Operations

By Abdullahi Muhammad, Abuja

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has successfully concluded the 2026 Hajj outbound airlift of Nigerian pilgrims to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

This development comes ahead of the deadline for inbound Hajj flights into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia before the commencement of Hajj rites. 

The airlift operation, which commenced on May 3, 2026, concluded with the final flight conducted by Max Air, responsible for transporting pilgrims from Zamfara State, with departures facilitated from Gusau International Airport.

A total of 98 outbound flights were operated within 18 days, averaging about five flights daily. Nigeria was allocated a Hajj quota of 50,000 pilgrims for the 2026 exercise. 

This figure includes 9,750 slots allocated to Licensed Tour Operators, as well as operational support personnel and statutory officials.

As at the conclusion of the airlift, about 39,000 pilgrims from the government quota, excluding officials and government representatives, were successfully airlifted to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the performance of Hajj.

However, some intending pilgrims were unable to travel due to unavoidable circumstances, including deaths and ill health after the issuance of visas.

The Commission expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for the orderly, peaceful, and successful coordination among critical stakeholders throughout the airlift operation.

The Chairman of NAHCON, Amb. Ismail Abba Yusuf, commended the cooperation and resilience demonstrated by NAHCON Board Members, staff, Nigerian pilgrims, State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards, Licensed Tour Operators, official air carriers, security agencies, operational committees, and other relevant stakeholders who contributed to the success recorded so far.

The Commission particularly appreciated the enormous support and diligent guidance of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the supervision of Vice President Kashim Shettima, in ensuring the safety and overall well-being of Nigerian pilgrims despite challenges occasioned by uncertainties in global socio-political trends.

As pilgrims settle into the Holy Land for the sacred rites of Hajj, NAHCON reminded them that the Hajj period is a unique moment in the life of a Muslim and a time that demands patience, discipline, sacrifice, steadfastness, and fervent prayers.

Pilgrims were therefore strongly advised to abide by the laws and regulations guiding Hajj operations in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and avoid acts capable of attracting penalties or creating unnecessary difficulties for themselves and others.

He urged pilgrims to continue cooperating with officials and relevant authorities, while the Commission reassured them that arrangements for Masha’ir operations have been concluded and will be continuously monitored to safeguard their comfort and welfare.

Meanwhile, preparations are being concluded for the return flight operations scheduled to commence on 3rd June 2026. Details regarding return schedules will be communicated in due course.

The Commission further assured that preparations for future Hajj operations, including the 2027 Hajj exercise, will commence immediately after the conclusion of the current pilgrimage season as part of efforts to consolidate the successes recorded and improve service delivery.