Hajj 2025: Over 17,000 Nigerians airlifted in one week

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has announced that more than 17,000 Nigerian pilgrims have been airlifted to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia within the first week of this year’s Hajj operations. According to data from NAHCON’s Command and Control Centre in Abuja, a total of 43 flights had successfully transported the pilgrims as […]

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has announced that more than 17,000 Nigerian pilgrims have been airlifted to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia within the first week of this year’s Hajj operations.

According to data from NAHCON’s Command and Control Centre in Abuja, a total of 43 flights had successfully transported the pilgrims as of 9:00 p.m. on Wednesday.

In a statement issued by Fatima Sanda Usara, the Commission’s Assistant Director of Information and Publication, NAHCON confirmed that several states—including Oyo, Abia, Kogi, Nasarawa, Ondo, and Ekiti—have completed the airlift of their pilgrims.

“Importantly, no flight cancellations have been recorded so far. On the contrary, one of the carriers transporting pilgrims from Niger State arrived in Saudi Arabia ahead of schedule, reflecting a commendable level of diligence,” the statement said.

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The commission attributed the smooth operation to the strong collaboration with State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards and the strategic decision to engage four airlines for this year’s exercise. 

Meanwhile, pilgrims for the Hajj 2025 have been advised to avoid political discussions, arguments and other distractions that could nullify the spiritual benefits of their pilgrimage.

The MD/CEO of Hajj Mabrur Ventures Limited (HMVL), Alhaji AbdulHameed Olasunkanmi Solate, gave the advice during the 23rd Annual Hajj Seminar in Abuja for the 279 intending pilgrims of the organisation.

He urged the pilgrims to focus solely on worship, avoiding idle talk and political debates to maximise the spiritual rewards of Hajj.

He also enjoined them to be good ambassadors of Nigeria and strictly comply with the rules and regulations of the Saudi government.

HMVL’s Sales and Marketing Manager, Alhaji Moshood Lambo, reminded pilgrims to consider their selection for Hajj a divine privilege granted to a few among millions.

Officials from the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Muhammad Abdulkadir and Ahmad Abdulkadir, respectively, advised pilgrims to understand immigration rules and avoid prohibited items.

NCS advised pilgrims to declare cash over $10,000 or items exceeding 60,000 riyals in Saudi Arabia.

The NDLEA warned that trafficking illicit drugs attracts capital punishment in Saudi Arabia.

Even large quantities of over-the-counter drugs like paracetamol or vitamins are banned, he added.