NAHCON Concludes 2026 Hajj Airlift, Begins Preparations for 2027 Pilgrimage
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has officially concluded the return airlift of Nigerian pilgrims from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, bringing the 2026 Hajj operations to a successful close.
The Commission announced that the final batch of pilgrims, comprising those from Zamfara State, was scheduled to arrive in Nigeria on Monday, June 23, marking the completion of the return journey for thousands of Nigerian pilgrims who participated in this year’s pilgrimage.
NAHCON said the conclusion of the inbound operation effectively ends the 2026 Hajj exercise, one of the country’s largest annual religious and logistical undertakings involving the transportation, welfare, healthcare, and coordination of pilgrims in Saudi Arabia.
Despite the successful completion of the airlift, the Commission disclosed that 12 Nigerian pilgrims remain hospitalised in Saudi Arabia, receiving treatment for various health conditions.
According to the Commission, arrangements have already been made to facilitate their return to Nigeria immediately after they are certified fit for travel by medical authorities.
The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NAHCON, Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf, expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for the overall success of the 2026 Hajj operation and commended stakeholders whose contributions ensured a smooth exercise.
He particularly appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima for their unwavering support and commitment toward the successful conduct of the pilgrimage.
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The Commission also acknowledged the efforts of State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards, Agencies and Commissions, licensed tour operators, aviation partners, healthcare personnel, security agencies, service providers and media organisations for their roles in the operation.
NAHCON further thanked Nigerian pilgrims for their cooperation and adherence to guidelines throughout the exercise.
While noting that some challenges were encountered during the operation, the Commission said valuable lessons had been learned and would be incorporated into future planning to enhance service delivery and improve the overall pilgrimage experience.
In a move aimed at sustaining early planning and operational efficiency, NAHCON announced that preparations for the 1448AH/2027 Hajj exercise have already commenced.
The Commission disclosed that it had formally notified all Hajj managers across the country through a circular dated June 15, 2026, titled “Commencement of Preparations for 1448H/2027 Hajj Season.”
The circular, signed by the Secretary of the Commission, Dr. Mustapha Muhammad Ali, on behalf of the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, directed State Pilgrims Welfare Boards, Agencies and Commissions as well as licensed private tour operators to immediately begin preparatory activities.
According to NAHCON, all stakeholders are expected to comply strictly with the official guidelines and preparation framework issued by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah for the 2027 pilgrimage.
The early commencement of preparations, the Commission noted, is part of efforts to improve planning, strengthen coordination and ensure that Nigerian pilgrims continue to enjoy seamless services during future Hajj operations.
The successful completion of the 2026 Hajj exercise reinforces Nigeria’s position as one of the largest Hajj-participating nations in Africa and underscores the importance of effective coordination among government agencies, aviation operators, healthcare providers and religious institutions in managing the annual pilgrimage.
By PRNigeria
