2026 Hajj Return Airlift Enters Final Phase as 7 Remaining States Intensifies Effort
By Abdulrazaq Auwal
The 2026 Hajj return airlift operation is approaching its final phase, with only seven states yet to complete the transportation of their pilgrims back to Nigeria from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Available figures from the ongoing exercise indicate that the vast majority of participating states have successfully concluded their return operations, marking significant progress in the nationwide effort coordinated by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and state pilgrims’ welfare boards.
The remaining states still conducting return flights are Kano, Zamfara, Katsina, Edo, Bayelsa, Delta, and Cross River.
Authorities and designated airlines continue to coordinate flights that will return pilgrims from these states in the coming days.
The near-completion of the return exercise reflects the successful coordination of logistics, flight scheduling, and pilgrim management following the conclusion of the 2026 Hajj rites.
Since the commencement of the return airlift, airlines and Hajj officials have safely transported thousands of Nigerian pilgrims from Makkah and Madinah, primarily through King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah.
The NAHCON has continued to monitor flight schedules and provide support services to ensure the smooth movement of pilgrims.
State pilgrims’ boards have also maintained communication with intending returnees and their families to facilitate seamless arrivals across the country.
The commission has repeatedly emphasized its commitment to ensuring that all Nigerian pilgrims complete their journey home safely and comfortably.
The commission has commended state officials, airline operators, and Saudi authorities for their cooperation throughout the exercise.
With only seven states left to conclude their operations, the 2026 Hajj return airlift is on course for a successful completion, bringing to a close another major phase of the annual pilgrimage exercise.
