The Kano State Amirul Hajj and Emir of Gaya, Dr. Aliyu Ibrahim Abdulkadir, has called on the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to expedite the return airlift of Kano pilgrims to Nigeria. During a visit to NAHCON's Ummuljud office in Makkah on Thursday, Dr. Abdulkadir led a Kano delegation to express concerns over the late arrival of the state's contingent during the outbound airlift to Saudi Arabia.
Appeal for Early Return
Although NAHCON has not yet released the return flight schedule for Kano pilgrims, the traditional ruler urged a review of the homebound airlift arrangements to minimize the number of days pilgrims spend in the Kingdom after completing their pilgrimage. He emphasized the need for a swift return to allow pilgrims to reunite with their families.
Call for Prayers
Earlier, at a separate event, Dr. Abdulkadir encouraged pilgrims to intensify prayers for peace and stability in Kano State and Nigeria at large while awaiting their flights. He assured them that the Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board is actively engaging with NAHCON to facilitate an early return.
The Deputy Amirul Hajj and Emir of Karaye, Alhaji Muhammad Muhammad Maharaz, also urged pilgrims to remain patient and pray for peaceful general elections in Nigeria. He stressed the importance of maintaining calm during this period.
NAHCON's Response
Briefing journalists after a closed-door meeting with the Kano delegation, NAHCON Chairman Ambassador Ismaila Abba Yusuf pledged to examine the concerns raised. He noted that the commission operates a "first come, first return" policy but promised to engage airline operators to explore solutions. The airlift of 3,620 pilgrims from Kano began on May 15, 2026, a week before the closure of Saudi airspace for incoming Hajj pilgrims. However, the schedule, initially set for four days, extended to seven days, causing delays.
Impact on Pilgrims
The delayed arrival affected pilgrims' spiritual activities in Madinah, forcing many to shorten their stay instead of observing the recommended three-day period. As of this report, NAHCON had not officially responded to complaints about the challenges faced by the pilgrims.
