The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has announced significant progress in its 2025 Hajj operations, having successfully airlifted 32,549 pilgrims to Saudi Arabia. This figure represents 79.1% of the total Nigerian contingent scheduled to participate in this year's pilgrimage.

According to a statement released on Wednesday by Fatima Sanda Usara, NAHCON's Assistant Director of Information and Publication, the Commission has operated 79 flights since the commencement of airlift operations on May 9, 2025, with no cancellations recorded.

Several states have already completed their pilgrim transportation operations, including Adamawa and Plateau. Bauchi and Gombe States are expected to conclude their operations today, with only 30 pilgrims each remaining to be airlifted.

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and Jigawa State are also scheduled to complete their airlift operations today. Meanwhile, Kwara State's remaining 137 pilgrims will join a Kano Max Air flight this afternoon to complete their quota.

The statement further revealed that Benue pilgrims will join intending pilgrims from the South-South region for a combined flight on May 23, which will mark the final phase of airlift operations from that area.

NAHCON explained that while there have been no flight cancellations, some minor delays were deliberately arranged to facilitate proper cleaning and decongestion of hotels in Madinah due to the surge in arrivals.

"Such cleanup procedures are standard operational routines following vacation of rooms during the Hajj season. This goes unnoticed during initial airlift periods but causes misinterpretations at peak periods when a higher number of pilgrims are on the ground, requiring immediate turnover," the statement clarified.

The Commission expressed appreciation to Nigerian pilgrims and their communities for their goodwill, patience, and prayers. NAHCON also reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring a smooth Hajj experience for every pilgrim participating in this year's religious exercise.