The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has announced the successful completion of the outbound airlift of Nigerian pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj exercise to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
According to NAHCON spokesperson Fatima Sanda Usara, the final flight departed at about 10:44 a.m., just ahead of the deadline set by Saudi authorities for the arrival of international pilgrims. The last aircraft, operated by Max Air, transported pilgrims from Zamfara State via Gusau International Airport.
The airlift operation began on May 3, 2026, and lasted 18 days, involving a total of 98 flights with an average of about five flights daily.
NAHCON stated that Nigeria was allocated a quota of 50,000 pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj. This includes 9,750 slots for licensed tour operators, as well as officials and support staff involved in the exercise.
About 39,000 pilgrims under the government quota were successfully transported, excluding officials and other categories. The commission noted that some intended pilgrims could not travel due to unforeseen circumstances such as illness or death after visa issuance.
The agency commended all stakeholders involved in the operation, including state pilgrims’ welfare boards, tour operators, airlines, security agencies, and other coordinating bodies, for ensuring a smooth process.
NAHCON Chairman, Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf, expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima for their support in ensuring the welfare and safety of Nigerian pilgrims.
The commission also urged pilgrims to comply with Saudi regulations throughout the Hajj period. It added that arrangements for the Masha’ir rites have been completed, while return flights are scheduled to begin on June 3, 2026.
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