Madina: The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has announced the successful transportation of 36,359 Nigerian pilgrims to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, marking a significant milestone in its airlift operation, which is set to conclude on May 30.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Assistant Director of Information and Publication, Hajiya Fatima Usara, provided the update from Madina, indicating that 5,494 pilgrims from the government quota are still awaiting their flights. Usara highlighted that Air Peace is expected to complete its final Hajj flight on May 24, having secured a slot for that date. Similarly, UMZA Aviation plans to finish its operations from Kaduna on the same day, with only three flights remaining. Max Air is set to conclude its airlift on May 25. The extension of these operations is attributed to an increase in the number of pilgrims registering in certain states after formal allocations had been made.
In a special arrangement, FlyNas is scheduled to finalize its operations on May 30, with its last flight departing with a full complement of pilgrims, including the Governor of Kebbi State. The commission has planned mop-up flights on May 24 in Kaduna by Umza, Abuja by Air Peace, and Kano by Max Air, with Max Air’s last flight taking off from Katsina on May 25.
The NAHCON spokesperson also addressed concerns regarding the Nusuk card, assuring the remaining pilgrims who have yet to receive their cards that they will soon be distributed. The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, in partnership with designated service providers, has been directed to resolve any outstanding issues promptly. NAHCON is actively monitoring the process to ensure compliance and timely distribution.
Furthermore, Hajiya Fatima Usara recalled that on April 23, the commission announced its VIP service provider, Rawaf Mina, secured 2,800 bed spaces in the Tent A+ facility. This year, it is the only VIP location secured, and distribution to interested parties has been ongoing since the announcement.
NAHCON Chairman, Prof. Abdullahi Saleh, expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for the achievements thus far and hoped for continued success throughout the Hajj season. He also extended thanks to the commission’s many stakeholders for their contributions and praised the intending pilgrims for their patience and civil conduct.