Abuja, Nigeria: The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has confirmed the successful airlift of 14,165 Nigerian pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage.
In a statement issued by the Commission’s Assistant Director of Information and Publication, Fatima Sanda Usara, NAHCON reported a notable increase in the number of airlifted pilgrims compared to the same period last year, when 9,788 pilgrims were transported on 23 flights—accounting for 20.2% of the total.
States that have completed their outbound pilgrimages include Oyo, Abia, Kogi, and Nasarawa, while Ondo and Ekiti are currently coordinating their final joint flight.
NAHCON attributed the smooth coordination to strong collaboration with the state pilgrims’ welfare boards and the efficient services of the four designated airlines. It also extended gratitude to Saudi authorities for the early release of flight schedules, which significantly improved logistical planning and timeliness.
The Commission cautioned the public against fraudulent practices, emphasizing that no official Hajj visas have yet been issued to Nigerian pilgrims outside of authorized procedures.
“No official Hajj visa has been granted by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Nigeria at this time,” Usara stated, urging the public to report any suspicious activities involving unapproved visa claims.
Additionally, NAHCON advised pilgrims not to travel with more than 60,000 Saudi Riyals—or its equivalent—as part of efforts to ensure compliance with Saudi regulations during the pilgrimage.
By Enoch odesola/May 15,2025
