The return airlift of Nigerian pilgrims who participated in the 2026 Hajj has officially begun, starting with pilgrims from Nasarawa State.
According to the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), MaxAir flight NGL267 departed Jeddah for Abuja at 09:27hrs, conveying 560 pilgrims back to Nigeria.
Flynas, one of the Saudi-designated Nigerian Hajj carriers, also confirmed that return operations will continue with pilgrims from Ogun and Kebbi States scheduled for June 4, using six A330 wide-body aircraft to ensure smooth transportation.
The airline stated that the first return flight will land at the Gateway International Airport in Abeokuta, while the second will arrive at Sir Ahmadu Bello International Airport in Birnin Kebbi.
Further flights are expected to continue on June 5 as part of a coordinated schedule covering multiple states including Lagos, Osun, Kaduna, Niger, Ogun, and Nasarawa.
Officials say the operation is being conducted in line with international best practices, following a successful outbound movement of over 11,000 pilgrims to Saudi Arabia.
