By Olugbenga Salami
The inaugural flight for the 2026 Hajj from Nigeria will depart on May 3 from Gateway International Airport, Abeokuta, Ogun State, aboard FlyNas airline, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, NAHCON has said.
This will be the first time Ogun State pilgrims depart from the state capital following the airport’s construction.
NAHCON, in a statement by its Deputy Director of Information and Publications, Fatima Sanda Usara, listed other flights scheduled for the same day. They include Umza and Max Air from Abuja with Kogi and Nasarawa State pilgrims respectively, Air Peace from Lagos with Oyo State pilgrims, and another FlyNas flight from Birnin Kebbi.
The Commission said its staff, including ad hoc members of the National Medical Team, departed on Tuesday, April 28, to prepare for the arrival of Nigerian pilgrims in Saudi Arabia.
NAHCON advised 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 must bear the consequences of moving to the next available one,” the statement read.
Other implications include delays affected pilgrims wait to be regrouped for the journey.
The Commission also stressed that pilgrims must travel strictly under their assigned group of 45. Nusuk cards for each group will be ready and awaiting their arrival in Saudi Arabia. Pilgrims are therefore urged to confirm and familiarize themselves with their group members before departure.
In addition, it said pilgrims should obtain the contact details of their group leaders and the state officials accompanying them on the flight.
NAHCON Chairman, Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf, assured intending pilgrims of a smooth and successful 2026 Hajj exercise.
