The first batch of Nigerian pilgrims has begun their journey back home after completing the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage. The inaugural return flight, carrying 560 pilgrims from Nasarawa State, departed from King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on Wednesday. The flight, operated by MaxAir as NGL 267, took off at exactly 09:27 hours Saudi time and is destined for Abuja, marking the start of the second phase of the airlift operation.
Return Flight Schedule and Preparations
Data obtained from the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) indicates that two return flights are scheduled for Thursday, carrying pilgrims from Kebbi and Ogun States. These flights will be operated by Flynas, a Saudi Arabian designated carrier. NAHCON's Head of Aviation, Alhaji Habib Bello, had earlier announced the commencement of the return flights and appealed to pilgrims to comply with standard luggage rules to avoid unnecessary obstructions.
Alhaji Habib Bello urged pilgrims to adhere to the approved baggage allowance of two bags, each weighing no more than 23 kilograms, plus an 8-kilogram hand luggage. He warned that non-compliance could result in delays or removal from flight manifests. Additionally, pilgrims are required to notify officials at least 48 hours before departure to facilitate passport release, luggage processing, and transportation arrangements.
Outbound Airlift Summary
A total of 38,888 Nigerian pilgrims were transported to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia during the outbound airlift, according to data from the NAHCON control room. The airlift was completed in 98 flights over 19 days, using four designated carriers. Max Air transported the highest number of pilgrims, carrying 14,701 individuals in 31 flights. The Saudi carrier Flynas conveyed 11,005 pilgrims in 30 flights, while Nigerian carriers Umza Aviation and Air Peace airlifted 6,917 pilgrims in 16 flights and 6,265 pilgrims in 21 flights, respectively.
Further breakdown of the data shows that 24,159 male and 14,729 female Nigerians participated in the 2026 Hajj exercise. Kebbi State had the highest number of pilgrims, with over 4,000, followed by Kano State with approximately 3,603 pilgrims. Cross River State had the fewest pilgrims, with only 15, while Bayelsa State sent 17 pilgrims. Notably, Abia, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, and Ebonyi States recorded zero pilgrims.
The flight schedule for the return of Kano pilgrims has not yet been released by the Hajj Commission, as Kano pilgrims were among the last to arrive in Saudi Arabia during the outbound airlift.
