NAHCON to Begin 2025 Hajj Return Flights on June 9
Pilgrims from Imo, Bauchi, Kebbi, and Sokoto to be airlifted first as commission commends discipline, urges reflection on Hajj lessons.
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has announced that return flights for Nigerian pilgrims who participated in the 2025 Hajj will begin on June 9, corresponding to the 13th of Dhul-Hijjah.
The announcement was made by NAHCON Chairman and CEO, Prof. Abdullahi Saleh, in a statement issued from Minna on Friday.
“We heartily congratulate all Muslims on the occasion of Eid al-Adha, especially those who witnessed the Day of Arafat,” Saleh said. “May Allah accept your prayers and sacrifices.”
According to Saleh, the first batch of returnees will include pilgrims from:
Imo State – to be airlifted by Air Peace
Bauchi State – via Max Air
Kebbi and Sokoto States – through Flynas
He urged pilgrims in the initial return batch to prepare adequately and pray for a smooth and successful operation for all Nigerian returnees.
Reflecting on the spiritual significance of Hajj, Prof. Saleh highlighted the virtues of trust in Allah, obedience, and discipline, drawing from the examples of Prophet Ibrahim and Sayyidatuna Hajara.
“Trust in Allah, as exemplified in the Hajj rituals, brings blessings and prosperity to individuals and communities,” he added.
Saleh also praised the orderly conduct and discipline shown by Nigerian pilgrims during the Hajj, noting that their cooperation made NAHCON’s job significantly easier. He further appreciated the support from State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards, which he said played a vital role in the successful coordination of the 2025 pilgrimage.
The 2025 Hajj return operation is expected to span several days and weeks as NAHCON continues its phased repatriation of pilgrims across the federation.
