Quote from Dami_Luv on May 12, 2026, 11:38 am

The first batch of 345 pilgrims from Niger State departed for the Holy City of Madinah today, marking the official commencement of the 2026 Hajj airlift operation in the state. The pilgrims were seen off at the Minna International Airport by the Deputy Governor, who urged them to be good ambassadors of Nigeria and to pray for the peace and prosperity of the nation.

 

The State Pilgrims Welfare Board has announced that it has put all necessary logistics in place to ensure a hitch-free exercise. This includes the provision of “five-star” accommodation in Saudi Arabia and a dedicated medical team to attend to the health needs of the pilgrims throughout their stay in the Holy Land.

Security at the airport was beefed up to ensure the safety of the pilgrims and their families, with various agencies, including the NDLEA and Nigeria Customs, conducting thorough screenings. The board has also cautioned the pilgrims against carrying prohibited items, emphasizing that the Saudi authorities maintain a “zero-tolerance” policy for drug trafficking.

As the airlift continues over the next two weeks, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has expressed satisfaction with the pace of the operations nationwide. The commission is utilizing a fleet of modernized aircraft this year, which has significantly reduced the waiting times and delays that characterized previous Hajj cycles.

https://punchng.com/niger-begins-hajj-airlift-as-345-pilgrims-fly-out-to-madinah/