Nigerian pilgrims to this year’s hajj in Saudi Arabia will start returning back to the country as from Monday, June 9, 2025.
Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, Chairman/CEO, National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) disclosed this in a statement on Friday.
He said : “As we mark Eid, we bring good news: the return journey for Nigerian pilgrims will begin on the 13th of Dhul-Hijjah (June 9).
“The first flights will include pilgrims from Imo State with Air Peace, Bauchi State with Max Air, and Kebbi and Sokoto States with Flynas.
“We urge the first batch pilgrims to be ready for their return trip and pray for a smooth return leg operation for all our pilgrims.”
The Chairman who disclosed this in his Eid al-Adha Message congratulated all Muslims on the occasion, the fortunate pilgrims who witnessed the Day of Arafat.
He enjoined Muslim faithfuls to remember the essence of the Hajj period and to imbibe the lessons contained in the exercise.
“Remember the trust in Allah that Sayyidatuna Hajara had that brought the existence of Zamzam. 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.
“Trust in Allah, obedience to leadership and discipline will make communities and nations prosper,” he advised.
Usman then appreciated Nigerian pilgrims to this year’s hajj for their cooperation and orderly conduct throughout the Hajj exercise.
“Their patience and discipline have been remarkable. This made NAHCON’s job easier,” he said.
The NAHCON Chairman also extended appreciation to the State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards, saying that support and excellent organization of pilgrims have contributed greatly to the success of the operations.
“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.
“To our Board Members and all our Ad-hoc staff, we are grateful for your tireless commitment and patience in serving the guests of Allah,” he said
The NAHCON Chairman also acknowledged the strong support received from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima.
He said their backing was instrumental to the smooth running of this year’s Hajj operations.
“We also commend the excellent services witnessed in the Mashair: Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah.
“We assure the public that NAHCON is committed to doing even better, with the right cooperation and continued support from all stakeholders,” Usman said. (vitalnewsngr.com)
