The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has officially concluded the 2025 Hajj return operations with the arrival of the final batch of Nigerian pilgrims from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The concluding flight, which departed from Jeddah at approximately 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, July 2, carried 87 pilgrims and landed safely in Kaduna State, marking the end of a 17-day return airlift operation that began on June 13.
Chairman of NAHCON, Professor Abdullah Saleh Usman, while addressing the pilgrims before their departure, expressed profound gratitude to Allah for a peaceful and successful Hajj season. He acknowledged the cooperation and unity exhibited by State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards, airline operators, and service providers, as well as the discipline of the pilgrims throughout the exercise.
Professor Usman urged the returning pilgrims to continue praying for Nigeria’s peace, unity, and leadership, emphasizing that the spiritual journey should translate into positive values and strengthened bonds of friendship.
“Hajj is not just a ritual but a journey that transforms the soul and strengthens human relationships. I encourage you all to uphold the spirit of brotherhood and love you cultivated during the pilgrimage,” he said.
The Chairman was accompanied by the Commissioner of Operations, Prince Anofiu Elegushi; Secretary of the Commission, Dr. Mustapha Alli; Special Assistant to the President on Hajj Matters, Ameen Amshi; and other senior officials of NAHCON. The team offered prayers for the pilgrims’ safe return to their respective states.
Professor Usman also reiterated the Commission’s commitment to improving Hajj administration and pilgrim welfare in line with global best practices.
With this final flight, all Nigerian pilgrims who performed the 2025 Hajj have now been successfully airlifted back home.
