The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria has announced the successful completion of the 2026 outbound airlift of Nigerian pilgrims to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, saying the operation was concluded ahead of the deadline set for inbound Hajj flights.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the commission said the final outbound flight departed at 10:44 a.m. on May 21, marking the end of the airlift exercise.
According to NAHCON, the last flight was operated by Max Air and transported pilgrims from Zamfara State through the Gusau International Airport.
The commission noted that the outbound airlift commenced on May 3 and was completed within 18 days, during which a total of 98 flights were operated, averaging about five flights daily.
It stated that Nigeria was allocated 50,000 pilgrimage slots for the 2026 Hajj exercise, including 9,750 slots reserved for licensed tour operators, operational support personnel, and statutory officials.
NAHCON added that about 39,000 government-sponsored pilgrims, excluding officials and representatives, were successfully airlifted to Saudi Arabia for the pilgrimage.
The commission explained that some intending pilgrims were unable to travel due to unavoidable circumstances, including deaths and ill health after visa issuance.
It expressed gratitude to Allah for what it described as the orderly and peaceful coordination of the exercise among all stakeholders.
The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NAHCON, Ismail Abba Yusuf, commended the cooperation of board members, staff, pilgrims, State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards, licensed tour operators, airline operators, security agencies, and operational committees.
The commission also appreciated the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the supervision of Vice President Kashim Shettima in ensuring a smooth and secure pilgrimage operation despite global challenges.
NAHCON urged pilgrims currently in Saudi Arabia to remain law-abiding and adhere strictly to the rules governing Hajj operations, stressing that discipline and patience are essential components of the spiritual exercise.
It further assured that arrangements for the Masha’ir operations had been concluded and would be closely monitored to ensure the welfare and comfort of Nigerian pilgrims.
Meanwhile, the commission disclosed that preparations for the return airlift of pilgrims are at an advanced stage and scheduled to begin on June 3, with detailed flight schedules to be released later.
NAHCON added that planning for the 2027 Hajj exercise would commence immediately after the current pilgrimage season, as part of efforts to improve service delivery and build on operational successes.
The commission prayed for the acceptance of the pilgrims’ Hajj and their safe return to Nigeria.
