Hajj 2026: First batch of Lagos pilgrims arrives in Saudi Arabia

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Lagos State Pilgrims Welfare Board says no fewer than 343 intending pilgrims have landed at the King AbdulAzeez International Airport, Madinah, Saudi Arabia, for the 2026 Hajj exercise.

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According to a statement by the board’s Director of Public Affairs, Taofeek Lawal, the intending pilgrims comprised 169 males and 174 females

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Lawal said that the inaugural flight of the state took off from the Pilgrims and Cargo Terminal, Murtala Muhammed International Airport on Friday.

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He said that it marked another significant milestone in the state’s commitment to ensuring a smooth and spiritually fulfilling pilgrimage experience for her pilgrims.

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He said that the state’s contingent was airlifted by Flynas Airline airbus XY8504.

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Meanwhile, Mr Ibrahim Layode, Commissioner for Home Affairs and Amir-ul- Hajj, assured the pilgrims and their families that the state would make their welfare a top priority whilst in the kingdom.

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According to him, Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has given approval for necessary arrangements to ensure that pilgrims receive adequate support both here in Nigeria and in Saudi Arabia.

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“We encourage all pilgrims to remain law-abiding, prayerful, and be worthy Ambassadors of Lagos State and Nigeria throughout their stay in the Holy Land”.

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Also speaking, Commissioner for Operations, Inspectorate, and Licensing at the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Anofiu Elegushi, commended the seamless organisation of the airlifting process.

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Elegushi praised the intending pilgrims for their patience and discipline.

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“This successful airlift is a reflection of the tireless efforts put in place by the state government and NAHCON.

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“We are delighted that the pilgrims are departing in an atmosphere of peace, orderliness, and proper coordination. We pray for a successful Hajj exercise and safe return for everyone,” he said.

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Special Adviser to the Governor on Islamic Matters and Chairman, Hajj Ad hoc Committee, Dr Abdullahi Jebe, described the commencement of the airlifting exercise as encouraging and commendable.

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Jebe said that the successful departure of the first batch demonstrated the state’s commitment to excellence.

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He extended appreciation to the Sanwo-Olu, the Deputy Governor, Dr Kadiri Obafemi Hamzat; NAHCON officials and other stakeholders.

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He also appreciated Flynas Airline officials, Federal Airpot Authority of Nigeria (FAAN); security agencies, and the intending pilgrims for their cooperation.

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Some of the pilgrims who spoke with journalists also expressed satisfaction with the level of preparation, coordination, and cooperation received from the State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board.

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They said that the smooth take-off of the first batch reflected the dedication of the state government, towards providing quality welfare services, safety, and comfort for all the pilgrims throughout the Hajj operations.

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The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Lagos state has 1,600 intending pilgrims that will be performing the 2026 Hajj.

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The airlifting exercise will continue on Sunday with the departure of the second and third batches.

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“The fourth batch is scheduled to depart on Tuesday while the last and final batch will leave on Wednesday, May 13.

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(NAN)

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