2026 Hajj: First Batch of Kaduna Pilgrims Departs Jeddah for Home
By Abdulrazaq Auwal
The Kaduna State Pilgrims Welfare Agency has commenced the return airlift of pilgrims from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia following the successful completion of the 2026 Hajj exercise.
The first batch of returning pilgrims, comprising 344 individuals, departed King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah at 5:00 a.m. Saudi Arabian time on Tuesday, equivalent to 3:00 a.m. Nigerian time, and is expected to arrive in Kaduna later in the day.
The commencement of the inbound airlift operation marks a major milestone in the agency’s post-Hajj activities and signals the beginning of the phased return of thousands of Kaduna State pilgrims who participated in this year’s pilgrimage.
Officials of the agency said comprehensive arrangements had been put in place to ensure a smooth, safe and hitch-free return process for all pilgrims.
The agency is working closely with relevant stakeholders, including aviation authorities and ground support teams, to coordinate arrivals and facilitate seamless reception and onward transportation of pilgrims upon their return to Nigeria.
The Kaduna State Pilgrims Welfare Agency expressed satisfaction with the progress of the operation and reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that all pilgrims are returned home safely and comfortably.
In a statement issued by the agency’s Public Relations Officer, Ibrahim Datti, the agency appreciated the support and cooperation of the Kaduna State Government, aviation authorities and other stakeholders whose contributions were instrumental to the successful conduct of the 2026 Hajj operations.
The agency noted that the return airlift would continue in phases until all Kaduna pilgrims in Saudi Arabia are transported back to the state.
The 2026 Hajj exercise, which attracted millions of Muslim faithful from across the world, concluded with pilgrims performing the mandatory religious rites in the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah before beginning their journey home.
Authorities have urged returning pilgrims to cooperate with officials to ensure a smooth completion of the airlift exercise.
