The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has announced the closure of registration for the 2025 Hajj, effective May 2, to focus on the airlift of pilgrims. This move aims to ensure that the commission can allocate sufficient resources to guarantee the comfort of pilgrims during their journey. Any deposits for Hajj fares received after the deadline will be fully refunded, according to Fatima Usara, Assistant Director of Information and Publication at NAHCON.
Initially, an extension was possible thanks to the intervention of NAHCON Chairman, Prof. Abdullahi Saleh, despite the contract closing on March 25. However, stopping further registrations became necessary to concentrate on the airlift process. The movement of pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for the Hajj is set to commence on May 9. The inaugural flight, scheduled to depart from Owerri, will be hosted by Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo. Notably, 315 pilgrims from Imo, Abia, and Bayelsa are expected to board the Air Peace airline for this significant journey.
Vice-President Kashim Shettima is anticipated to attend the occasion as the Special Guest of Honour. In preparation, the NAHCON advance team arrived in Owerri on May 7 to oversee the arrangements for the inaugural flight. The registration for the 2025 Hajj concluded with a record number of 40,671 pilgrims. To facilitate the pilgrimage, four flights are planned to take off simultaneously on May 9. These include Max Air from Bauchi, two Flynas flights from Kebbi and Osun via the Lagos departure center, and a fourth flight from Niger. In total, 2,528 pilgrims are expected to arrive in Madina on the first day. As the activities unfold, further details will be shared, ensuring a smooth and successful pilgrimage experience for all participants.
