NAHCON Sets June 9 for Return of Nigerian Pilgrims, Commends Orderly Conduct During Hajj

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has announced that the return of Nigerian pilgrims from the 2025 Hajj will begin on Sunday, June 9.

The Chairman/CEO of NAHCON, Professor Abdullahi Saleh, made this known in Mina on Friday while congratulating the Muslim Ummah on the occasion of Eid-Al-Adha.

“All praise belong to Allah, for the privilege of witnessing another eid-al-adha; the celebration of sacrifice,” Saleh said. “On behalf of NAHCON, I heartily congratulate all Muslims on the occasion. We especially congratulate the fortunate pilgrims who witnessed the Day of Arafat. May Allah accept your prayers and sacrifices and those of other Muslims too.”

He disclosed that the first flights back to Nigeria would transport pilgrims from Imo State via Air Peace, Bauchi State via Max Air, and Kebbi and Sokoto States via Flynas.

Saleh urged the first batch of pilgrims to prepare for their departure and pray for a smooth and successful return operation for all.

The NAHCON chairman also used the occasion to reflect on the spiritual essence of Hajj, calling on Muslims to internalise its lessons.

“Remember the trust in Allah that Sayyidatuna Hajara had that brought the existence of Zamzam,” he said. “Remember the sacrifice that Prophet Ibrahim made in abandoning his family in the desert alone in the care of Allah and how Allah rewarded that obedience with the boisterous town of Makkah.

“See how the reward of trust in Allah led to surplus blessings in foods and security in a desert land as a rewarding response to Prophet Ibrahim’s supplication.”

According to him, trust in Allah, obedience to leadership, and discipline are values that foster the prosperity of communities and nations.

In assessing the ongoing Hajj exercise, Saleh expressed gratitude for the cooperation and orderly conduct of Nigerian pilgrims, which he said contributed immensely to the success of the operation.

“In celebrating the success of Hajj so far, let me start by appreciating the cooperation and orderly conduct of Nigerian pilgrims throughout this Hajj exercise. Their patience and discipline have been remarkable. This made NAHCON’s job easier,” he said.

He also lauded the State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards for their organisational efforts, as well as NAHCON staff and ad-hoc personnel who served diligently, even under the demanding conditions of ihram.

“To our dedicated NAHCON staff, many of whom were serving pilgrims even while in the state of ihram, your sacrifice is noted, and your reward is with Allah,” he said.

Saleh also commended NAHCON board members and ad-hoc staff for their commitment and service to the “guests of Allah.”

He acknowledged the vital support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima, describing their backing as instrumental to the success of this year’s Hajj operations.

“We also commend the excellent services witnessed in the Mashair: Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah,” he added. “We assure the public that NAHCON is committed to doing even better with the right cooperation and continued support from all stakeholders.”