The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has officially concluded the return airlift of Nigerian pilgrims from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the 2026 Hajj exercise, with the final flight conveying pilgrims from Zamfara State expected to arrive in Nigeria today 23rd, June 2026.
A statement from the commission said the completion of the return leg brings to a close the 2026 Hajj operations, marking the end of a major national exercise that involved the successful airlift of Nigerian pilgrims to and from the Holy Land.
The Commission, however, disclosed that 12 Nigerian pilgrims are currently receiving treatment in different hospitals in Saudi Arabia for various health conditions. NAHCON is closely monitoring their situations and has made arrangements to facilitate their safe return to Nigeria as soon as they are discharged from the hospitals.
The NAHCON Chairman, Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf expresses gratitude to Almighty Allah for the overall success of the 2026 Hajj exercise and appreciates the tremendous support and dedication of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR and his able Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima GCON for the unflinching support they rendered towards the success of the operation. NAHCON also appreciates the cooperation and hard work of State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards, licensed Tour Operators, service providers, aviation partners, medical teams, security personnel, the media and, most importantly, Nigerian pilgrims.
The Commission acknowledges that, as with every major operation of this scale, there were challenges encountered in the course of the exercise. Nonetheless, valuable lessons have been drawn and these will be applied toward improving subsequent Hajj operations.
Meanwhile, in line with the Commission’s commitment to continuous improvement and early planning, NAHCON has already formally commenced preparations for the 1448H/2027 Hajj exercise. This was conveyed to all Hajj managers in Nigeria through a circular dated 15 June 2026 and titled “Commencement of Preparations for 1448H/2027 Hajj Season,” signed by the Secretary of the Commission, Dr. Mustapha Muhammad Ali for NAHCON Chairman/CEO.
Consequently, State Pilgrims Welfare Boards/Agencies/Commissions and licensed Private Tour Operators are directed to commence preparatory activities immediately in strict compliance with the official preparation document for the 1448H/2027 Hajj season as received from the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah,