The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has announced the successful arrival of the first batch of Nigerian pilgrims who participated in the 2025 Hajj exercise in Saudi Arabia.
According to a statement released by Shafii Mohammed, Principal Information Officer of NAHCON, a total of 1,310 pilgrims have so far returned to the country via four separate flights from Jeddah.
Providing flight details, Mohammed disclosed: “Maxair flight VM269 departed Jeddah to Bauchi at 08:07hrs, carrying 551 pilgrims and seven officials. Flynas flight XY9006 departed Jeddah to Kebbi at 09:45hrs with 413 pilgrims and six officials on board.”
He further revealed that UMZA and Air Peace airlines also participated in transporting pilgrims back home. “UMZA flight UY3534 departed Jeddah to Abuja at 13:12hrs with 41 pilgrims and 122 officials, while Air Peace flight APK7901 left Jeddah for Owerri at 23:45hrs with 305 pilgrims and seven officials,” the statement added.
NAHCON confirmed that approximately 63,000 Nigerian pilgrims took part in the 2025 Hajj. The Commission assured the public that the return operations are being carefully managed to prioritize the safety, comfort, and welfare of all pilgrims.
The airlift of pilgrims back to Nigeria will continue in phases until the exercise is concluded.