The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has announced the official closure of registration for the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage. According to a statement signed by Fatima Sanda Usara, Assistant Director, Information and Publication Division, the registration ended on Friday, May 2, 2025, following an extension granted by the NAHCON Chairman/CEO, Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman. The original deadline had been fixed for March 25, 2025.
The Commission explained that the halt in registration was necessary to enable smooth planning and airlift of intending pilgrims with adequate provision for their welfare and safety. It added that any deposits received after the cut-off date will be refunded.
NAHCON also disclosed that airlift operations will commence on Friday, May 9, 2025, with the inaugural flight scheduled to depart from Owerri, the Imo State capital. Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma, is expected to host the flag-off ceremony, while Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima is billed to attend as Special Guest of Honour.
A total of 315 pilgrims from Imo, Abia, and Bayelsa States will be airlifted aboard Air Peace airline on the maiden flight. Meanwhile, NAHCON’s advance team has arrived in Owerri to supervise preparations ahead of the event.
The Commission confirmed that 40,671 pilgrims have successfully registered under the government quota for this year’s pilgrimage. On the first day of airlift, four flights are expected to depart Nigeria for Madina, carrying a combined total of 2,528 pilgrims. The flights include a Max Air flight from Bauchi, two FlyNas flights from Kebbi and Osun (via Lagos), and a fourth flight from Niger State.
Further updates will be provided as the Hajj operations progress.
