First Batch of Yobe Pilgrims Airlifted Home from Jeddah
By Abdulrazaq Auwal
The Yobe State Pilgrims Commission 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 315 individuals, departed King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah on Monday at exactly 5:40 p.m. Saudi Arabian time, corresponding to 3:40 p.m. Nigerian time, en-route to Yobe State.
The departure marks the beginning of the commission’s inbound Hajj operation and represents a significant milestone in its post-Hajj activities.
It also signals the start of the phased return of all Yobe State pilgrims who participated in this year’s pilgrimage to the holy sites in Saudi Arabia.
The commission said it has put in place comprehensive arrangements to ensure a smooth, safe, and efficient return process for all pilgrims.
Working closely with relevant stakeholders, it remains committed to coordinating the return exercise in a manner that guarantees the comfort and welfare of the pilgrims.
Authorities have also concluded necessary preparations for the reception of the returning pilgrims upon arrival in Nigeria. These measures include transportation and other logistical support aimed at facilitating their onward movement to their respective destinations within the state.
The Yobe State Pilgrims Commission expressed appreciation to the Yobe State Government, aviation authorities, and other stakeholders whose support and cooperation contributed significantly to the success of the 2026 Hajj operation.
According to the commission, the collaboration among government agencies, aviation partners, and Hajj officials played a vital role in ensuring the successful conduct of the pilgrimage and the commencement of the return airlift operation.
Public Relations Officer of the commission, Suleiman Alhaji Sabo, said efforts would continue until all Yobe pilgrims are safely transported back home, assuring families and residents that the return exercise is progressing as planned.
