The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has successfully airlifted 36,297 pilgrims back to Nigeria in 88 flights, representing over 86% of the total number of pilgrims who participated in the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage. According to Professor Saleh Usman Abdullahi, NAHCON Chairman, the commission is working diligently to complete the return of all remaining pilgrims in Saudi Arabia.
The return leg of the Hajj airlift operations has seen significant improvement, with carriers securing increased slot allocations. This development has enabled the commission to make notable progress in transporting pilgrims back home. NAHCON has expressed satisfaction with the ongoing airlift, which is being conducted on a First-in-First-Out (FIFO) basis.
The commission initially projected that the return airlifts might not be concluded by June 28, but with the current pace, they are expected to be completed by July 2, 2025. NAHCON has commended the Saudi authorities and airlines for their commitment to ensuring the smooth operation of the airlift.
The successful airlift of Nigerian pilgrims is a testament to the commission’s efforts in managing the logistics of the Hajj pilgrimage. With over 41,668 pilgrims expected to return, NAHCON’s progress is notable, and the commission is working to ensure that all remaining pilgrims are safely transported back home.
NAHCON’s chairman has urged pilgrims, officials, and airlines to sustain the tempo and comply with the rules and regulations guiding the operations. With the airlift exercise expected to conclude on August 3, 2025, the commission is confident that it will successfully achieve its objectives and ensure that all pilgrims obtain Hajj Mabrur.
