The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has commenced the return airlift of Nigerian pilgrims from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia following the successful completion of the 2026 Hajj exercise.
The first batch of pilgrims departed Saudi Arabia on Thursday, June 4, 2026, marking the beginning of the homebound phase of the pilgrimage operation after spending about a month in the Holy Land.
According to information released by the NAHCON Command and Control Centre in Makkah, the first return flight, operated by Flynas Airlines, departed Jeddah for Kebbi State at 5:53 a.m. carrying 426 pilgrims.
A second Flynas flight later departed Jeddah for Iperu, Ogun State, at 3:54 p.m. with 345 pilgrims on board.
Also on Thursday, MaxAir flight NGL263 departed Jeddah for Abuja at 10:54 a.m. carrying 560 pilgrims, comprising 559 pilgrims from Nasarawa State and one pilgrim from Katsina State.
With the completion of four return flights on the first day of the operation, a total of 1,891 Nigerian pilgrims had been airlifted back home.
NAHCON disclosed that additional return flights were scheduled as part of efforts to ensure the smooth evacuation of all Nigerian pilgrims from the Kingdom.
As the return operation gathers momentum, the Commission advised pilgrims to strictly comply with baggage regulations to avoid delays during screening and departure procedures.
Pilgrims were reminded that each traveller is entitled to two checked-in bags weighing 23 kilograms each and one hand luggage not exceeding eight kilograms. The Commission stressed that multiple hand luggage would not be permitted.
NAHCON further explained that luggage screening would take place 48 hours before departure to facilitate quick clearance and early retrieval of luggage upon arrival in Nigeria.
The Commission also warned pilgrims against including Zamzam water or other prohibited items in their luggage, noting that such items would be confiscated during screening.
Among the prohibited items listed are flammable substances, lighter fluids, lithium batteries and power banks packed in checked baggage, aerosols, excessive quantities of liquids and sharp objects in hand luggage.
The Commission explained that attempts to conceal Zamzam water inside checked baggage often expose luggage to additional screening procedures and possible tampering.
Meanwhile, NAHCON commended the four approved air carriers participating in the 2026 Hajj operations for commencing the return airlift on schedule despite concerns over rising aviation fuel costs.
The Commission reassured the airlines of the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting them and ensuring the smooth and successful completion of the return operation.
Katsina State pilgrims are expected to begin their return journey to Nigeria from June 11, 2026, according to the Katsina State Pilgrims Welfare Board.
