The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria has officially concluded the return airlift of Nigerian pilgrims from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia following the 2026 Hajj exercise, while simultaneously commencing preparations for the 2027 pilgrimage season.
According to a statement issued by the Commission, the final flight conveying pilgrims from Zamfara State was scheduled to arrive in Nigeria on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, marking the completion of the return phase of the Hajj operations.
The successful conclusion of the airlift brings to an end the 2026 Hajj exercise, a major national operation that involved transporting thousands of Nigerian pilgrims to and from the Holy Land.
NAHCON disclosed that 12 Nigerian pilgrims are currently receiving treatment in various hospitals across Saudi Arabia for different health conditions.
The Commission said it is closely monitoring their situations and has made arrangements to facilitate their return to Nigeria immediately after they are discharged.
The Chairman of NAHCON, Ismail Abba Yusuf, expressed gratitude to Allah for the successful conduct of the 2026 Hajj exercise. He also commended the support provided by Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Kashim Shettima.
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The Commission further acknowledged the contributions of State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards, licensed tour operators, service providers, aviation partners, medical teams, security agencies, media organisations and the pilgrims themselves in ensuring the success of the exercise.
While noting that some challenges were encountered during the operation, NAHCON stated that important lessons had been learned and would be used to improve future Hajj exercises.
Meanwhile, the Commission announced that preparations for the 1448H/2027 Hajj season have formally commenced.
It said the directive was communicated to all Hajj managers nationwide through a circular dated June 15, 2026, titled “Commencement of Preparations for 1448H/2027 Hajj Season,” and signed by the Commission’s Secretary, Mustapha Muhammad Ali, on behalf of the Chairman.
NAHCON directed State Pilgrims Welfare Boards, Agencies and Commissions, as well as licensed private tour operators, to immediately begin preparatory activities in line with guidelines issued by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, underscoring its commitment to early planning and continuous improvement of Hajj operations.
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