As the 2025 Hajj season comes to a close, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has announced that a significant majority of Nigerian pilgrims have safely returned home. A total of 36,297 pilgrims have been airlifted back to Nigeria, accounting for over 86% of the 41,668 individuals who embarked on the spiritual journey to Saudi Arabia. This remarkable feat is a testament to the meticulous planning and execution of the return process, which is nearing completion.
According to NAHCON Chairman, Prof. Abdullahi Saleh Usman, the return trips have been facilitated through 88 different flights. He highlighted the recent arrival of Umza flight UY3540, which departed from Jeddah to Kaduna, carrying 476 pilgrims and 8 officials. This flight marked a significant milestone, bringing the total number of airlifted pilgrims to 36,297. With the current pace of return trips, it is expected that all Nigerian pilgrims will be back home soon.
The success of the return process can be attributed to the tireless efforts of the NAHCON team, who worked diligently to ensure a smooth and safe experience for the pilgrims. Alhaji Abba Sani Musa, a returning pilgrim from Kano, expressed his gratitude towards the commission, praising their exceptional care and support throughout the journey. “I must commend the leadership of the Hajj Commission for taking good care of us in Saudi Arabia, both in terms of welfare, medicare, transportation, and even our stay in Medina, which was exceptional,” he said.
The seamless execution of! the return process is a welcome relief for the pilgrims and their families, who can now reunite and share stories of their life-changing experience. As the remaining pilgrims prepare to return home, the NAHCON team continues to work tirelessly to ensure their safe and timely arrival. With the 2025 Hajj season drawing to a close, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria has demonstrated its commitment to providing a world-class experience for Nigerian pilgrims, from departure to return.
