The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has officially concluded the return airlift of Nigerian pilgrims from Saudi Arabia, marking the end of the 2025 Hajj operations.
In a statement on Wednesday, NAHCON confirmed that the final return flight departed from Jeddah, carrying 88 pilgrims to Kaduna State, including one pilgrim from Katsina State. This wraps up a 20-day return operation that began on June 13.
The statement, signed by Hajiya Fatima Sanda Usara, Assistant Director of Information and Publications at NAHCON, described the return phase as smooth and successful, with all flights completed without major incidents.
NAHCON Chairman, Professor Abdullah Saleh Usman, expressed satisfaction with the overall conduct of the 2025 Hajj, both in Saudi Arabia and during the return journey.
“The success we achieved was made possible by the spirit of unity and cooperation from officials of state pilgrims’ welfare boards, airline operators, and service providers,” he said.
He also praised the pilgrims for their discipline and adherence to the rules throughout the religious exercise.
Prof. Usman urged returning pilgrims to keep praying for peace, unity, and progress in Nigeria, especially as the country continues to face economic and security challenges. He reminded them that Hajj is not only a spiritual journey but also a platform for building friendship and peaceful coexistence.
“Continue the friendships you built during Hajj. Let the spirit of peace and togetherness reflect in your lives back home,” he added.
NAHCON also reaffirmed its commitment to improving future Hajj operations. Prof. Usman said the commission will keep working to meet global standards in the welfare and service of Nigerian pilgrims.
The 2025 Hajj saw thousands of Nigerian Muslims travel to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah to perform one of the five pillars of Islam. NAHCON was responsible for coordinating the pilgrimage, including flights, accommodation, feeding, and health services.
The conclusion of the return flights marks the end of this year’s pilgrimage and signals the beginning of preparations for the 2026 Hajj exercise.
