The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria has successfully concluded the return airlift of Nigerian pilgrims from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, officially bringing the 2026 Hajj exercise to a close.
The Commission announced that the final flight conveying pilgrims from Zamfara State was scheduled to arrive in Nigeria on Monday, 23 June 2026, marking the completion of the nationwide operation that transported thousands of Nigerian pilgrims to and from the Holy Land.
NAHCON disclosed that 12 Nigerian pilgrims remain in hospitals across Saudi Arabia, where they are receiving treatment for various health conditions. The Commission said it is closely monitoring their recovery and has made arrangements for their safe return to Nigeria once they are discharged.
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Chairman of NAHCON, Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf, expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for the successful completion of the 2026 Hajj operations. He also commended President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima for their unwavering support throughout the exercise.
The Commission further appreciated the contributions of State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards, licensed tour operators, service providers, aviation partners, medical personnel, security agencies, media organisations, and Nigerian pilgrims for ensuring the success of the operation.
While acknowledging that some challenges were encountered during the exercise, NAHCON stated that valuable lessons had been learnt and would be applied to improve future Hajj operations.
Meanwhile, the Commission has commenced preparations for the 1448H/2027 Hajj season. In a circular dated 15 June 2026, and signed by the Secretary of the Commission, Dr Mustapha Muhammad Ali, on behalf of the Chairman/CEO, NAHCON directed all State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards, Agencies, Commissions, and licensed private tour operators to begin preparations immediately.
The Commission urged all Hajj managers to strictly comply with the official preparation guidelines issued by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to ensure a seamless and more efficient 2027 Hajj exercise.
