2025 Hajj: NAHCON completes airlift of Nigerian pilgrims to Saudi Arabia

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) says it has completed the airlift of pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for the 2025 hajj.

Abdullahi Usman, chairman of the NAHCON, spoke on Wednesday while addressing the national media team in Abuja.

Usman said the support of the federal government was instrumental to the smooth execution of the 2025 hajj airlift.

“We sincerely thank the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the Vice-President Kashim Shettima, for their strong support in ensuring the success of the 2025 hajj operation,” Usman said.

“Their support gave us the confidence and structure needed to carry out a smooth and well-organised pilgrimage.”

The NAHCON chairman said the commission’s priority was to ensure seamless travel and adequate care for all pilgrims.

He added that the 2025 hajj airlift demonstrated the commission’s growing capacity to manage pilgrimage operations with precision and professionalism.

“It hasn’t been easy, but with proper planning, the help of Almighty Allah, and solid teamwork, we have completed the job successfully — alhamdulillah,” he said.

“We are grateful to everyone who made this possible — from the government, the airlines, the state boards, and all those working behind the scenes.”

He said the 2025 hajj recorded several achievements that signalled progress in the country’s pilgrimage administration.

“One key success was the timely and well-coordinated airlift of pilgrims, which was concluded within the official schedule,” he said.

Usman asked Nigerians to pray for the success of the pilgrims as they fulfil their spiritual obligations in the holy land.

Asked about the return leg of the operation, Usman said NAHCON would ensure the pilgrims’ safe return.

“Everything is in the hands of Allah,” he said.

“But as long as we continue to work together as one family — by God’s grace— my team and I will keep supporting our pilgrims, assisting them through their rites, and ensuring they return to Nigeria safely, in sha Allah.”

Earlier today, the commission said a “special” flight has been arranged for May 28 to transport the NAHCON chairman alongside other senior officials and 22 pilgrims, who were previously unable to travel due to various reasons.