The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has successfully airlifted 32,549 pilgrims, representing 79.1% of Nigeria’s total intending pilgrims for the 2025 Hajj exercise.
This milestone was achieved through 79 flights since the airlift operations began on May 9, 2025, according to a statement by Fatima Sanda Usara, Assistant Director of Information and Publication, on behalf of the NAHCON Chairman.
Several states, including Adamawa and Plateau, have concluded their airlift operations, while Bauchi and Gombe are expected to complete theirs today, with just 30 pilgrims each left to travel. Jigawa State and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) will also wrap up their airlifts today. Meanwhile, Kwara State will conclude operations this afternoon with 137 remaining pilgrims joining a Max Air flight from Kano.
Pilgrims from Benue and the South-South region will be airlifted in a combined flight scheduled for May 23, marking the final phase of the nationwide Hajj airlift.
NAHCON confirmed that no flight cancellations have occurred during the process. However, some minor delays were intentionally implemented to allow for the proper decongestion and cleaning of hotel accommodations in Madinah, a routine measure during peak Hajj periods.
The Commission expressed gratitude to Nigerian pilgrims and communities for their patience, prayers, and support, assuring that it remains committed to ensuring a smooth and spiritually fulfilling Hajj for all.
