The Kaduna State Pilgrims Welfare Agency has successfully commenced the return airlift of its pilgrims from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia following the successful completion of the 2026 Hajj exercise.
A statement signed by the board public relations officer Ibrahim Datti said the first batch, comprising 344 pilgrims, departed King Abdulaziz International Airport, Jeddah, at exactly 5:00 a.m. Saudi Arabian time, equivalent to 3:00 a.m. Nigerian time, en route to Kaduna.
The commencement of the inbound operation marks a significant milestone in the Agency’s post-Hajj activities and signals the beginning of the phased return of all Kaduna State pilgrims to Nigeria.
The Kaduna State Pilgrims Welfare Agency, in collaboration with relevant stakeholders remains committed to ensuring a smooth, safe, and hitch-free return of all pilgrims.
Necessary arrangements have been put in place to facilitate efficient reception and onward transportation of the returning pilgrims upon arrival.
The Agency appreciates the support and cooperation of the Kaduna State Government, aviation authorities, and other stakeholders whose contributions have been instrumental to the success of the 2026 Hajj operations.
