MAKKAH — The first batch of 344 Lagos State pilgrims who participated in the just-concluded 2026 Hajj exercise in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia arrived in Lagos on Monday.
The pilgrims were aboard Flynas flight XY9492, which departed Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and landed safely at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, at 7:37 p.m. Nigerian time.
Prof. Kabir Paramole, Chairman of the Dawah and Enlightenment Committee, who led other officials on the first flight, expressed delight over the safe return. He said the spiritual experience of the journey could not be overemphasized and prayed for a safe trip for other pilgrims yet to be airlifted.
Airlifting will continue with the second flight of 345 pilgrims expected to depart Makkah on Wednesday, June 10, until the final flight on Saturday, June 13, 2026.
Meanwhile, the Medical Team Lead, Dr. Mazeedat Erinosho, rated the pilgrims’ health records highly. She described the medical situation as encouraging and impressive throughout their stay in the Holy Land.
Speaking on the team’s activities, Dr. Erinosho said a pre-Hajj medical screening was conducted in January 2026 for the 1,600 intending pilgrims. The screening included blood pressure and blood sugar checks, as well as tests for TB, HIV, and Hepatitis B. Pregnancy tests were also conducted for women of reproductive age (16–50 years) between April 30 and May 1, 2026, in compliance with Saudi Arabian health authorities.
She added that pilgrims with significant health challenges were identified, followed up, and monitored to ensure their fitness for Hajj.
Dr. Erinosho stated that the team also conducted health talks during weekend lectures across the 20 LGAs, emphasizing hydration, regular use of face masks, and drug compliance. The team collaborated with Ports Health Services for the vaccination of pilgrims.
She further noted that during the pilgrims’ stay in Madinah, Makkah, and Mina, the Lagos medical team, in collaboration with the NAHCON medical team, attended to emergencies, clinic visits, and referrals to Saudi Arabian hospitals. They ensured satisfactory follow-up until discharge and continued individualized care for affected pilgrims in their hotel rooms.
Dr. Erinosho added that pilgrims had access to medications and consultations from the Lagos medical team upon arrival from Mina until departure. She said these efforts greatly contributed to the reduction in health challenges and the overall success of the exercise.
Taofeek Lawal
Public Affairs Officer
