Over 2,000 Pilgrims Back Home as NAHCON Airlift Operations Continue

The return of Nigerian pilgrims from Saudi Arabia is speeding up. So far, more than 2,000 pilgrims have come back home as the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) carries on with the post-Hajj airlift.

This ongoing effort marks the final part of Nigeria's 2026 Hajj operations. Pilgrims have arrived in states like Abuja, Kebbi, and Ogun through a phased airlift plan. This plan aims to ensure smooth movement and prevent crowding at the airports.

The Command and Control Unit of the commission reported that by Friday, 2,767 pilgrims had returned to Nigeria in just three days. The airlift started on June 4.

To make things quicker, the commission has stepped up efforts to avoid delays. They advised pilgrims to follow health and travel rules before leaving Saudi Arabia.

Health and Travel Rules Followed

As part of getting ready for the return flights, NAHCON told State Medical Teams to help pilgrims fill out the required Health Declaration Forms before they leave.

According to NAHCON, these forms were given to all state medical teams from the start of the return process. Pilgrims who can read and write are encouraged to fill out the forms online. Those who cannot do so will be assisted by officials.

This advice came after delays at Lagos airport when some arriving pilgrims did not complete the necessary documents.

NAHCON also warned pilgrims not to hide bottles of Zamzam water in their checked bags. They said Saudi airport officials check baggage closely and often take away improperly packed or extra bottles of the holy water.

The commission stated that following these guidelines would help ensure smooth processing and reduce any issues during departure and arrival.

Pilgrims Praise Organisation and Coordination

Many returning pilgrims spoke to PREMIUM TIMES about their experiences. They described the operation as calm, organized, and well-coordinated.

Aliyu Musa from Kebbi State mentioned that pilgrims were given “a high level of care” during their journey back to Nigeria.

Bilkisu Sani, who landed in Abuja, said the return process was “calm and well organized.” She noted that officials guided them at every stage.

Other pilgrims shared similar feelings. Ibraheem Haruna from Ogun State praised the clear communication and discipline he observed. Zainab Bello from Kebbi State also remarked that the welfare of pilgrims seemed to be a priority, even with so many travelers.

Leadership and Operational Stability

Observers of Hajj management have linked the smooth return phase to better coordination within the commission under NAHCON Chairman Yusuf's leadership.

Analysts pointed out that even though Ismaila Yusuf took over late in the preparation, the 2026 Hajj has experienced fewer disruptions and more organized implementation among key departments.

Ahmadu Hassan described the process as having “less noise, more coordination and clearer task execution.” He believes this new discipline could improve the commission's performance in future Hajj operations if it continues.

NAHCON confirmed that return flights are happening in multiple states. The phased evacuation plan will remain active until all Nigerian pilgrims are safely back home.