Nigeria has transported 6,635 pilgrims to Saudi Arabia across 14 flights since May 3 as part of the 2026 Hajj operations. The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) Command and Control Centre confirmed the figure, noting that the airlift forms part of Nigeria's allocation of 50,000 slots approved by Saudi Arabia. The first day saw three flights carry 1,451 pilgrims from Kebbi, Kogi and Nasarawa states, while a fourth flight from Ogun State delivered 345 pilgrims and 70 officials to Jeddah. By May 4, three more flights brought 1,222 pilgrims from Oyo, Kebbi and Jigawa, raising the total to 3,018 across seven flights. On May 5, operations expanded with departures from Gombe, Nasarawa and Jigawa, lifting the cumulative number to 4,380 in 10 flights. Later that day, a Flynas flight (XY8494) left Lagos at 19:36hrs for Madinah with 343 Osun State pilgrims, including 191 males and 152 females. Another flight, MaxAir VM264, departed Gombe at 23:28hrs to Jeddah with 550 pilgrims—379 males and 171 females—bringing the total to 6,635. Airlines involved include Flynas, UMZA, MaxAir and Air Peace. Saudi authorities have set a deadline for closing airports to Hajj flights, requiring strict compliance with schedules. NAHCON continues to coordinate the phased movement of thousands more Nigerian pilgrims awaiting departure.
NAHCON reports moving 6,635 pilgrims in 14 flights, yet the commission has not clarified how many of the 50,000 allocated slots remain unfilled. The pace of airlifts suggests improved coordination, but the absence of real-time tracking for all pilgrims raises concerns for those still waiting. Delays or mismanagement at this stage could leave thousands stranded as Saudi Arabia enforces its airport closure deadline. The situation places pressure on state chapters and airlines to deliver timely updates without room for error.
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