NAHCON to return all pilgrims home by June 28

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has reassured of its determination to return all Nigerian pilgrims currently in Saudi Arabia by 28th June, 2025. Update from the NAHCON Command and Control Centre in Makkah said that 6,528 Nigerian pilgrims had returned to Nigeria, as Max Air completed its 16th flight on Tuesday. A statement […]

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has reassured of its determination to return all Nigerian pilgrims currently in Saudi Arabia by 28th June, 2025.

Update from the NAHCON Command and Control Centre in Makkah said that 6,528 Nigerian pilgrims had returned to Nigeria, as Max Air completed its 16th flight on Tuesday.

A statement by the Assistant Director, Information and Publication, Fatima Sanda Usara, said NAHCON along with State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards, and the 2025 official air carriers are doing everything within their capacity to increase the speed

“The commission has planned to return all pilgrims by 28th June 2025 and remains determined to do so.

“Please note that the fewer trips being experienced presently in the return airlift is due to the normal peak season air traffic in Saudi Arabia.

“During this period, all countries are trying to return their pilgrims at the same time, and this creates a heavy demand for airport slots. 

“These slots are managed by the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) in Saudi Arabia, and currently, Nigeria has not been allocated as many slots as needed to move its large number of pilgrims quickly. 

“In view of this, the three major stakeholders in the airlift operation have mapped out strategies to increase the number of slots to the country. 

“It is hoped that active discussions with the Saudi authorities will facilitate an increase in the flight slots. 

“FlyNas is the only airline presently running two flights per day. NAHCON’s plan is to seek more convenient slots for UMZA  Aviation, Air Peace and Max Air. 

“With large bodied aircraft, the pace of the return journey will increase significantly, and more flights will be scheduled daily.

“NAHCON appreciates the patience of the pilgrims and their officials and  assure all concerned that the Commission and the State Boards are working round the clock to ensure a quicker return trip for everyone,” the statement read.