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Hajj 2026: Nigerian pilgrims praise NAHCON's airlift operations upon return
🇳🇬 Nigeria /Culture & Society

Hajj 2026: Nigerian pilgrims praise NAHCON's airlift operations upon return

From Premium Times · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Outcome reported
  • Over 2,700 Nigerian pilgrims have returned home from Saudi Arabia as part of the post-Hajj evacuation operations for the 2026 Hajj.
  • The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) is managing the phased airlift to ensure orderly movement and prevent airport congestion.
  • Pilgrims have praised the organization and coordination of the return process, noting improved care and communication.

The return airlift of Nigerian pilgrims from Saudi Arabia is progressing smoothly, with over 2,700 pilgrims having arrived back in Nigeria. The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) is overseeing the post-Hajj evacuation, which marks the final phase of the 2026 Hajj operations.

a high level of care

— Aliyu MusaA returning pilgrim from Kebbi State described his experience during the journey back to Nigeria.

Pilgrims are being transported back to various states through a phased airlift system designed to ensure an orderly process and avoid airport congestion. As of Friday, 2,767 pilgrims had returned within three days, with the inbound airlift commencing on June 4.

the return process was calm and well organised

— Bilkisu SaniA pilgrim who arrived in Abuja shared her positive experience with the return airlift.

NAHCON has implemented measures to prevent delays, including directing pilgrims to complete mandatory Health Declaration Forms before departure. This directive follows previous issues at Lagos airport due to incomplete documentation. The commission also warned pilgrims against concealing Zamzam water in checked luggage, as Saudi airport authorities enforce strict baggage screening.

clear communication and discipline

— Ibraheem HarunaA pilgrim from Ogun State praised the organization of the return operations.

Many returning pilgrims have commended the operation, describing it as calm, organized, and well-coordinated. They highlighted a high level of care, clear communication, and discipline throughout the journey. Observers attribute the smooth execution to improved coordination within NAHCON under its current leadership.

the welfare of pilgrims appeared to receive greater attention

— Zainab BelloA pilgrim from Kebbi State noted the focus on pilgrim welfare during the evacuation.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Premium Times in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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