343 Lagos Pilgrims Arrive in Madinah as 2026 Hajj Airlift Begins
By Auwal Ahmad Umar
No fewer than 343 intending pilgrims from Lagos State have safely arrived in Madinah, Saudi Arabia, marking the commencement of the state’s 2026 Hajj operations.
The pilgrims, made up of 169 males and 174 females, landed at the King Abdulaziz International Airport aboard Flynas Airlines flight XY8504 after departing from the Pilgrims and Cargo Terminal of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, on Friday evening.
The successful airlift signals the beginning of the state government’s coordinated arrangements for this year’s pilgrimage exercise, with officials expressing optimism over a smooth and spiritually rewarding Hajj for all participants.
The Commissioner for Home Affairs and Amir-ul-Hajj, Hon. Olanrewaju Ibrahim Layode, assured journalists shortly before departure that the welfare of Lagos pilgrims would remain a top priority for both the pilgrims and their families throughout their stay in Saudi Arabia.
He said Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu had approved all necessary measures to ensure adequate support services for the pilgrims both in Nigeria and in the Holy Land.
He urged the pilgrims to conduct themselves responsibly and represent both Lagos State and Nigeria positively during the exercise.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Operations, Inspectorate and Licensing at the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, Prince Anofiu Olanrewaju Elegushi, praised the orderly conduct of the airlift operation and commended the pilgrims for their patience and discipline.
According to him, the successful departure reflected the collaborative efforts of the Lagos State Government and NAHCON in ensuring a hitch-free Hajj operation.
Similarly, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Islamic Matters and Chairman of the 2026 Hajj Ad Hoc Committee, Dr Abdullahi Ahmad Jebe, described the commencement of the airlift as encouraging.
He noted that the smooth take-off of the first batch demonstrated the state’s dedication to excellence in pilgrimage management.
Jebe also appreciated key stakeholders, including Governor Sanwo-Olu; Deputy Governor Dr Kadiri Obafemi Hamzat; NAHCON officials; Flynas Airline; the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria; security agencies; and the pilgrims for their cooperation toward the success of the operation.
Some of the pilgrims also expressed satisfaction with the level of preparation and coordination by the Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, noting that the seamless departure process reflected the government’s commitment to pilgrims’ welfare, safety, and comfort.
Lagos State is expected to airlift about 1,600 intending pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj exercise. The second and third batches are scheduled to depart on Sunday, May 10, while the fourth batch will leave on Tuesday, May 12. The final batch is expected to depart on Wednesday, May 13, 2026.
