The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has confirmed the safe return of the first group of Nigerian pilgrims who participated in the 2025 Hajj in Saudi Arabia.
In a statement issued by the Commission’s Principal Information Officer, Shafii Mohammed, a total of 1,310 pilgrims were flown back to Nigeria from Jeddah on four separate flights operated by Maxair, Flynas, UMZA Air, and Air Peace.
According to the breakdown, Maxair flight VM269 departed Jeddah at 8:07 am with 551 pilgrims and seven officials, heading to Bauchi.
Shortly after, Flynas flight XY9006 lifted 413 pilgrims and six officials bound for Kebbi at 9:45 am.
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UMZA and Air Peace also facilitated the return of pilgrims. UMZA flight UY3534 transported 41 pilgrims and 122 officials to Abuja at 1:12 pm, while Air Peace flight APK7901 carried 305 pilgrims and seven officials to Owerri at 11:45 pm.
NAHCON further disclosed that approximately 63,000 Nigerian pilgrims participated in this year’s Hajj.
The Commission assured the public that all return flights would be properly managed to ensure the safety, convenience, and dignity of the pilgrims throughout the ongoing post-Hajj airlift operations.