The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has successfully begun the return journey of Nigerian pilgrims who performed the 2025 Hajj in Saudi Arabia. As of June 17, 2025, over 6,500 pilgrims have safely arrived back in the country, marking a smooth and well-coordinated repatriation effort.
🇸🇦 A Pilgrimage Fulfilled, A Journey Home
The return phase began shortly after the completion of the core Hajj rites, with the pilgrims airlifted back in batches aboard specially designated flights. One of the most recent arrivals was Max Air Flight VM265, which landed at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, carrying 560 individuals, including 550 pilgrims from Oyo State, 1 pilgrim from Plateau State, and 10 Hajj officials.
According to NAHCON, this flight marks the 16th successful return flight, bringing the total number of repatriated pilgrims to 6,528.
Hajj 2025: A Record of Excellence and Safety
The 2025 Hajj saw the participation of 1.67 million pilgrims globally, including over 95,000 Nigerians. Saudi authorities and NAHCON worked tirelessly to ensure the health, safety, and spiritual fulfillment of the pilgrims throughout the sacred rites.
While the journey was mostly smooth, NAHCON did report seven Nigerian deaths, mainly due to health-related issues such as cardiac arrest. This figure, however, is significantly lower than in some previous years and is attributed to better medical readiness and pilgrim awareness.
Real-Time Monitoring & Support from Makkah
NAHCON’s Command & Control Centre in Makkah continues to serve as the nerve center for monitoring and directing all Hajj operations. The Commission has commended the pilgrims for their cooperation and patience and assured the public that all returning pilgrims will be flown back safely over the coming days and weeks.
The return operation is expected to span approximately three weeks, with daily updates provided on each flight and state contingents.
Pilgrims Return with Joy and Gratitude
Scenes at the airports across Nigeria have been emotional, with family members, state Hajj officials, and well-wishers welcoming the returning pilgrims with open arms, prayers, and joy. For many of these pilgrims, this journey of a lifetime has deepened their faith, brought them closer to God, and left them with memories to last a lifetime.
What to Expect Next
More return flights scheduled over the coming days
Continued support from NAHCON and state pilgrim boards
Wrap-up operations in Saudi Arabia following final departures
Preparations for Hajj 2026 will begin soon after the completion of this year’s activities
As NAHCON continues to facilitate a safe return for thousands more, the 2025 Hajj is already being seen as a shining example of improved logistics, spiritual success, and responsible governance.
