NAHCON Concludes 2026 Hajj Outbound Airlift Operation On Schedule
By Abdullahi Yusuf
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has successfully concluded the 2026 Hajj outbound airlift of Nigerian pilgrims to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia at 10:44 am today, 21st May 2026.
This comes ahead of the deadline for inbound Hajj flights into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia before the commencement of the Hajj rites.
A statement from the management of the commission said the airlift operation which commenced on the 3rd of May 2026, officially came to an end with the final flight by Max Air conveying pilgrims from Zamfara State, which departed the Gusau International Airport.
It said a total of 98 outbound flights were operated within 18 days, averaging about five flights daily.
According to the statement,Nigeria was allocated a total Hajj quota of 50,000 pilgrims for the 2026 exercise.
“This figure includes 9,750 slots allocated to Licensed Tour Operators, as well as operational support personnel and statutory officials. As at the conclusion of the airlift, about 39,000 pilgrims from the government quota, excluding officials and government representatives, were successfully airlifted to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the performance of Hajj.
“However, some intending pilgrims could not travel due to unavoidable circumstances, including deaths and ill health after issuance of visas.
“The Commission expresses gratitude to Almighty Allah for the orderly, peaceful and successful coordination among critical stakeholders throughout the airlift operation.
“The Chairman/CEO of NAHCON, Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf, commends the cooperation and resilience demonstrated by NAHCON Board Members, staff, Nigerian pilgrims, State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards, Licensed Tour Operators, official air carriers, security agencies, operational committees and other relevant stakeholders who contributed to the success recorded so far.
“The Commission particularly appreciates the enormous support and diligent guidance of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and the supervision of Vice President Kashim Shettima, GCON, in ensuring the safety and overall wellbeing of Nigerian pilgrims despite challenges occasioned by uncertainties in global socio-political trends.
“As pilgrims settle into the Holy Land for the sacred rites of Hajj, NAHCON wishes to remind them that the Hajj period is a unique moment in the life of a Muslim and equally a period that demands patience, discipline, sacrifice, steadfastness and fervent prayers. Pilgrims are therefore strongly advised to abide by the laws and regulations guiding Hajj operations in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and avoid acts capable of attracting penalties or creating unnecessary difficulties for themselves and others.
“Pilgrims are also urged to continue cooperating with officials and relevant authorities, while the Commission reassures them that arrangements for Masha’ir operations have been concluded and will be continuously monitored to safeguard their comfort and welfare.
“Meanwhile, preparations are being concluded for the return flight operations scheduled to commence on 3rd June 2026. Details regarding return schedules will be communicated appropriately in due course.
“The Commission also assures that preparations for future Hajj operations, including the 2027 Hajj exercise, will commence immediately after the conclusion of the current pilgrimage season as part of efforts to consolidate on successes recorded and improve service delivery.
“NAHCON prays for Allah’s acceptance of the pilgrims’ Hajj and their safe return to their families,” the statement added.