NAHCON Concludes 2026 Hajj Operations

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has officially completed the return airlift of Nigerian pilgrims from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia following the 2026 Hajj exercise. At the same time, the Commission has begun preparations for the 2027 Hajj season.

According to a statement released by the Commission, the final flight carrying pilgrims from Zamfara State was scheduled to arrive in Nigeria on Tuesday, June 23, 2026. This marks the end of the return phase of a major operation that transported thousands of Nigerian pilgrims to and from the Holy Land.

Despite the successful completion of the exercise, NAHCON disclosed that 12 Nigerian pilgrims remain in hospitals across Saudi Arabia, receiving treatment for various health conditions. The Commission said it continues to monitor their recovery closely and has already arranged for their return to Nigeria once doctors discharge them.

The Chairman of NAHCON, Ismail Abba Yusuf, thanked Allah for the smooth conduct of the 2026 Hajj exercise. He also praised the support provided by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima throughout the operation.

The Commission further recognised the efforts of State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards, licensed tour operators, service providers, aviation partners, medical personnel, security agencies, media organisations and the pilgrims themselves for their roles in ensuring a successful pilgrimage.

While acknowledging that a few challenges arose during the exercise, NAHCON said it had gained valuable experience that would help strengthen future operations. The Commission stressed that lessons learned from the 2026 Hajj exercise would guide improvements in service delivery and planning.

Meanwhile, preparations for the 1448H/2027 Hajj season have officially begun. NAHCON said it communicated the directive through a circular dated June 15, 2026, and instructed all Hajj managers, welfare boards and licensed tour operators to begin preparations immediately in line with guidelines issued by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. The move reflects the Commission’s commitment to early planning and better Hajj operations in the years ahead.