The last group of 2024 Hajj pilgrims from Nigeria is set to leave King Abdul Azeez International Airport in Jeddah on the morning of Tuesday, July 16, 2024.
Hajia Fatima Sanda Usara, Assistant Director of Public Affairs for the commission, announced that 50,383 pilgrims returned to Nigeria within 25 days via 119 flights. This efficient turnaround marks the end of the inbound flights for the 2024 Hajj operations.
“A total of 312 pilgrims from Kwara will be arriving in Ilorin on an Air Peace flight, marking the 119th return flight from Saudi Arabia to Nigeria,” Usara stated.
She noted that during the first phase of the Hajj operation, NAHCON conducted 121 flights, which was reduced to 119 for the return journey due to maximum seat utilization. The return phase concluded three days ahead of schedule.
Malam Jalal Ahmad Arabi, in a closing ceremony at Jeddah airport’s Hajj Terminal, expressed gratitude for the successful completion of the return journey, commending stakeholders and pilgrims for their cooperation and prayers.
Senator Ibrahim Yahaya Oloriegbe, Kwara’s Amirul Hajj, thanked the NAHCON Chairman for his swift responses and the efficient processing of visas, highlighting the smooth and timely operations.
Preparations for the 2025 Hajj have already begun, promising even greater success next year based on lessons learned this year.
