By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has announced that the first batch of Nigerian pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj exercise will depart on May 3, marking the official commencement of airlift operations.
The Merit Newspaper reports, based on a statement from the Commission’s spokesperson, Fatima Sanda Usara, that the inaugural flight will take off from the Gateway International Airport, Abeokuta, Ogun State, operated by FlyNas. She noted that it would be the first time Ogun State pilgrims would depart directly from the state capital following the airport’s completion and operationalisation.
Usara further disclosed that other flights scheduled for the same day include Umza and Max Air departing from Abuja, conveying pilgrims from Kogi and Nasarawa States respectively. Air Peace will also operate from Lagos with Oyo State pilgrims, while another FlyNas flight is expected to depart from Birnin Kebbi.
She explained that NAHCON officials, including members of the National Medical Team, had already departed for Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, April 28, to finalise arrangements ahead of the arrival of Nigerian pilgrims.
According to her, the Commission has introduced a zonal airlift system in which each carrier will complete evacuation from one zone before moving to the next, stressing that airlines will not return to a previously completed zone. She warned that pilgrims who miss their scheduled flights may have to await regrouping or make alternative arrangements at their own inconvenience.
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Usara also emphasised that pilgrims are expected to travel strictly in their assigned groups of 45, as reflected in their Nusuk registration cards, which will be ready upon arrival in Saudi Arabia. She urged intending pilgrims to familiarise themselves with their group members before departure.
She advised pilgrims to obtain and keep the contact details of their group leaders and accompanying state officials to ensure smooth coordination throughout the journey.
The NAHCON Chairman, Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf, according to the statement, assured all intending pilgrims that adequate arrangements have been made to guarantee a smooth, safe, and successful 2026 Hajj operation.
