By Olugbenga Salami
Nigeria has airlifted about 70% of its registered pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj, with operations continuing smoothly across departure centres nationwide.
Data from the Hajj Gazette 2026 Hajj Tracker shows that 27,293 pilgrims have already arrived in Madinah and Makkah. The flights were operated by Flynas, Air Peace, MaxAir, and UMZA Aviation Services.
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, NAHCON, is coordinating the exercise alongside state pilgrims’ welfare boards and licensed private tour operators.
Private operators have also stepped up their airlift, moving many of their registered pilgrims to Saudi Arabia ahead of the core Hajj rites, which begin on the 8th of Dhul-Hijjah.
Stakeholders attribute the steady progress to improved coordination between Nigerian authorities, airlines, and Saudi officials, as well as early preparations by operators.
The ongoing airlift is part of NAHCON’s broader effort to ensure a hitch-free Hajj while complying with Saudi Arabia’s strict operational guidelines.
Saudi authorities have reaffirmed the “No Hajj Permit, No Hajj” policy, warning that only properly documented pilgrims will be allowed access to the holy sites.
The airlift is expected to continue in the coming days until all registered Nigerian pilgrims and officials are transported for the 2026 Hajj.
