The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria has announced that the airlift of Nigerian pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj will commence on May 3.
In a statement by its spokesperson, Fatima Sanda Usara, the inaugural flight is scheduled to depart from Gateway International Airport in Abeokuta, Ogun State, with FlyNas—marking the first time pilgrims from the state will fly directly from the capital.
Other flights set for the same day include Umza and Max Air from Abuja conveying pilgrims from Kogi and Nasarawa states, Air Peace from Lagos with Oyo pilgrims, and another FlyNas flight departing from Birnin Kebbi.
The commission noted that its staff, including members of the National Medical Team, have already been deployed ahead of time to prepare for the pilgrims’ arrival in Saudi Arabia.
NAHCON also advised pilgrims to strictly adhere to their flight schedules, explaining that airlift operations will be conducted zone by zone. Any pilgrim who misses their scheduled flight may face delays and rescheduling challenges.
Read Also Plateau Pilgrims Board Announces 2026 Hajj Enlightenment Programme
Additionally, pilgrims are required to travel in groups of 45, in line with their Nusuk card arrangements, and are encouraged to familiarize themselves with their group members before departure. They are also urged to obtain contact details of their group leaders and accompanying state officials.
Chairman of NAHCON, Ismail Abba Yusuf, assured intending pilgrims that all necessary arrangements have been put in place to ensure a smooth and successful 2026 Hajj exercise.
