The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has announced that the inaugural flight for the 2026 Hajj exercise will take off on May 3 from Gateway International Airport, marking a historic first departure for pilgrims from Ogun State’s capital.
The flight, operated by Flynas, signaled the commencement of the nationwide airlift of Nigerian pilgrims to Saudi Arabia. The development followed the recent construction of the airport, enabling Ogun State pilgrims to depart directly from within the state for the first time.
On the same day, other carriers are scheduled to begin operations across different locations. Umza Aviation Services and Max Air will airlift pilgrims from Abuja for Kogi and Nasarawa States respectively, while Air Peace will convey Oyo State pilgrims from Lagos. Another Flynas flight is also expected to depart from Birnin Kebbi.
In preparation for the exercise, NAHCON officials, including members of the National Medical Team, departed Nigeria on April 28 to make arrangements for the reception and welfare of pilgrims upon arrival in Saudi Arabia.
The Commission has issued important guidelines to intending pilgrims, stressing that airlift operations will be conducted one zone at a time. It warned that once a carrier concludes operations in a particular zone and proceeds to another, it will not return. Pilgrims who miss their scheduled flights may face delays and logistical challenges before being regrouped for subsequent departures.
NAHCON also emphasized that all pilgrims must travel strictly within their designated groups of 45, as their Nusuk cards required for identification and access to Hajj services will be prepared based on these groupings. Pilgrims are therefore advised to familiarize themselves with their group members and maintain contact with their group leaders and state officials.
NAHCON Chairman, Ismail Abba Yusuf, assured intending pilgrims that the Commission has put all necessary measures in place to ensure a seamless and successful 2026 Hajj operation.
