Abuja, Nigeria: The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has reiterated that only authorised tour operators are permitted to register intending pilgrims for the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage.
In an official update on the ongoing airlift of pilgrims to Saudi Arabia, the Commission’s Assistant Director of Information and Publication, Fatima Sanda Usara, urged the public to remain vigilant and report any individuals falsely offering official Hajj visas or slots for sale.
“No official Hajj visa has been issued to Nigeria so far for the 2025 pilgrimage,” she stated, emphasizing the need for caution and warning against falling victim to fraudulent schemes.
Providing details on the airlift progress, NAHCON reported that 14,165 pilgrims have been transported to Saudi Arabia via 35 flights within five days. This accounts for 34.4% of the total expected number of pilgrims, and reflects significant improvement compared to the same period in 2024, when 23 flights conveyed 9,788 pilgrims—just 20.2%.
Several states, including Oyo, Abia, Kogi, and Nasarawa, have completed their airlifts, while Ondo and Ekiti States are set to conclude theirs with a joint flight. The Commission noted that no flights have been cancelled to date, with one flight from Niger State even arriving ahead of schedule—a development credited to the dedication of NAHCON’s partners and staff.
NAHCON praised the effective collaboration of state pilgrims’ boards and the strategic coordination with four participating airlines. The Commission also acknowledged the Saudi authorities for providing full flight schedules in advance, which has enhanced operational efficiency and punctual departures.
By Taiwo Olatinwo/May 14,2025
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