By GARBA MUHAMMAD

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has officially concluded the return airlift of Nigerian pilgrims from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia following the 2026 Hajj exercise, with the final batch of pilgrims from Zamfara State expected to arrive in the country on Tuesday.

The completion of the return flights marks the end of the 2026 Hajj operations, bringing to a close a major national exercise that involved the successful transportation of thousands of Nigerian pilgrims to and from the Holy Land.

NAHCON disclosed in a statement that 12 Nigerian pilgrims are currently receiving treatment in various hospitals in Saudi Arabia for different health conditions.

According to the Commission, arrangements have already been made to facilitate their safe return to Nigeria once they are discharged by medical authorities.

The Chairman of NAHCON, Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf, expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for the successful conduct of the 2026 Hajj exercise and commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima for their support.

He also acknowledged the contributions of State Pilgrims Welfare Boards, licensed tour operators, service providers, aviation partners, medical teams, security agencies, media organisations and Nigerian pilgrims for their cooperation throughout the exercise.

“The Commission appreciates the tremendous support and dedication of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR and his able Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima GCON for the unflinching support they rendered towards the success of the operation,” the statement said.

NAHCON noted that despite the overall success of the pilgrimage operation, some challenges were encountered during the exercise.

The Commission, however, said valuable lessons had been learnt and would be used to strengthen future Hajj operations.

Meanwhile, NAHCON has formally commenced preparations for the 1448H/2027 Hajj season as part of efforts to ensure early planning and continuous improvement.

The Commission said a circular dated June 15, 2026, titled “Commencement of Preparations for 1448H/2027 Hajj Season,” had already been issued to all Hajj managers across the country.

The circular, signed by the Secretary of the Commission, Dr. Mustapha Muhammad Ali, on behalf of the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, directed State Pilgrims Welfare Boards, Agencies and Commissions, as well as licensed Private Tour Operators, to begin preparatory activities immediately.

NAHCON further instructed stakeholders to strictly comply with the official preparation guidelines for the 1448H/2027 Hajj season issued by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.

The Commission said the early commencement of preparations underscores its commitment to enhancing service delivery and ensuring a more efficient and seamless Hajj exercise in 2027.

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