The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has announced that the first airlift for the 2026 hajj pilgrims will take place on May 3.

A statement by the spokesperson of NAHCON, Fatima Sanda Usara, said the inaugural flight will take off from Gateway International Airport, Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital with FlyNas.

The statement said this marks the first time the Ogun state pilgrims will depart from the state capital with the construction of the airport.

Sanda said, “Other flights to take off the same day are Umza and Max Air from Abuja with Kogi and Nasarawa states pilgrims respectively, Air Peace from Lagos with Oyo State pilgrims while another FlyNas flight will takeoff from Birnin Kebbi.”

She, however, said NAHCON’s staff, including ad hoc members of the National Medical Team, departed in advance today, Tuesday 28th April to prepare for the arrival of Nigerian pilgrims.

She added, “NAHCON advises pilgrims to note that airlift by each carrier will be conducted one zone at a time. Once airlift is concluded from one zone and moves to the next, the carrier will not return to that zone. Pilgrims who miss their scheduled flight from that zone must bear the consequences of moving to the next available one. Other fallouts include having to wait pending when they will be re-grouped for the journey.

“Secondly, know that pilgrims must travel strictly under their group of 45 whose Nusuk cards will be ready and awaiting their arrival in Saudi Arabia. Hence every pilgrim is advised to confirm and familiarize themselves with group members prior to the journey.”

She advised pilgrims to obtain the contact details of their group leaders and the State officials accompanying them on the flight.

“The NAHCON Chairman, Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf, assures Nigerian intending pilgrims that the Commission has put all the necessary preparations in place to ensure a smooth and successful 2026 Hajj exercise.”

(Daily Trust)

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