The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has officially concluded the return airlift phase of the 2026 Hajj exercise, marking the successful completion of one of the country’s largest annual religious operations.
The final batch of Nigerian pilgrims, comprising pilgrims and officials from Zamfara State, departed Jeddah aboard MaxAir flight VM2014 on Tuesday, 23 June, at 2:10 p.m. local time and is expected to arrive in Gusau later in the day.
According to data from the commission’s Command and Control Centre, the concluding flight conveyed 149 pilgrims and 28 officials from Zamfara State, bringing the total number of pilgrims and officials airlifted back to Nigeria to 38,052 through 97 return flights.
The completion of the return journey effectively draws the curtain on the 2026 Hajj operations, which involved the transportation of thousands of Nigerian pilgrims to and from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the annual Islamic pilgrimage.
Successful end to months of intensive operations
The 2026 Hajj airlift exercise began with the outbound transportation of pilgrims from various states across Nigeria to Madinah and Jeddah in Saudi Arabia, before transitioning into the return phase following the completion of Hajj rites in Makkah and its surrounding holy sites.
Despite the scale and complexity of the operation, NAHCON successfully coordinated with state pilgrims’ welfare boards, airlines, healthcare providers, security agencies and Saudi authorities to ensure the smooth movement of pilgrims throughout the exercise.
Industry observers have noted that the 2026 Hajj operation witnessed improvements in logistics coordination, accommodation management and pilgrim welfare services, although some operational challenges typical of large-scale international pilgrimages were recorded.
Twelve pilgrims still receiving medical care
While celebrating the conclusion of the return airlift, the commission disclosed that 12 Nigerian pilgrims remain hospitalised in Saudi Arabia, where they are receiving treatment for various health conditions.
NAHCON assured that it is closely monitoring their health situations and has put in place arrangements to facilitate their return to Nigeria immediately after they are discharged by medical authorities.
Yusuf commends Tinubu, Shettima, stakeholders
Reacting to the successful completion of the exercise, NAHCON Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Ismail Yusuf, expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for the overall success recorded during the 2026 Hajj season.
Mr Yusuf also commended President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima for their unwavering support, which he said contributed significantly to the smooth conduct of the pilgrimage.
The chairman further praised the efforts of State Pilgrims Welfare Boards, licensed tour operators, service providers, aviation partners, medical teams, security personnel and media organisations for their dedication and cooperation throughout the operation.
He reserved special appreciation for Nigerian pilgrims, whose patience, discipline and adherence to guidelines helped ensure the success of the exercise.
Preparations for 2027 Hajj already underway
Even as the 2026 exercise comes to an end, NAHCON has formally commenced preparations for the 1448AH/2027 Hajj season.
The commission disclosed that a circular dated 15 June, titled, “Commencement of Preparations for 1448H/2027 Hajj Season,” has already been issued to all Hajj managers across the country.
Signed by NAHCON Secretary, Mustapha Ali, on behalf of the Chairman/CEO, the directive instructs 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.
The early commencement of planning is expected to give stakeholders sufficient time to address operational gaps, meet Saudi deadlines and ensure a more seamless pilgrimage experience for Nigerian pilgrims in 2027.
With the final flight now completed and preparations for the next season already in motion, NAHCON says it remains committed to improving the quality of Hajj administration and maintaining Nigeria’s reputation as one of the leading Hajj-participating nations in the world.