NAHCON Airlifts Over 32,000 Nigerian Pilgrims for 2025 Hajj
79% of Nigeria’s Hajj Contingent Successfully Transported
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has achieved a significant milestone in its 2025 Hajj operations, successfully airlifting 32,549 pilgrims to Saudi Arabia. This represents 79.1% of Nigeria’s total Hajj contingent, according to an official statement released on Wednesday.
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Smooth Operations Across Multiple States
NAHCON’s Assistant Director of Information and Publication, Fatima Usara, confirmed that the airlift operations which began on May 9 have progressed smoothly through 79 flights. Several states including Adamawa and Plateau have already completed their airlift operations, while Bauchi and Gombe are set to conclude today with just 30 pilgrims remaining in each state.
Pilgrims from the Federal Capital Territory and Jigawa State are also expected to complete their journey to Saudi Arabia by the end of Wednesday. Kwara State, with 137 pilgrims pending, will finalize its deployment through a scheduled Max Air flight departing from Kano this afternoon.
Final Phase of Airlift Operations
The commission noted that Benue pilgrims will join their counterparts from the South-South region for a combined flight on May 23, marking the final phase of airlift operations from that area. This strategic scheduling ensures efficient use of resources and smooth transition for all pilgrims.
Zero Flight Cancellations Recorded
Usara emphasized that despite occasional delays, not a single flight has been cancelled since operations began. She explained that any delays were intentionally scheduled to allow for proper hotel clean-up and decongestion in Madinah, particularly during peak arrival periods.
“These cleanup procedures are standard operational routines following the vacating of rooms during the Hajj season,” Usara stated. “They ensure proper accommodation turnover for incoming pilgrims.”
NAHCON’s Commitment to Pilgrims
The commission expressed gratitude to all intending pilgrims and communities for their patience and prayers, reaffirming its commitment to ensuring a smooth Hajj experience for every Nigerian pilgrim. NAHCON continues to monitor operations closely to maintain the current success rate throughout the remaining airlift period.
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