Nigerian Pilgrims Begin Journey from Madinah to Makkah as NAHCON Confirms 9,756 Airlifted

Nigerian pilgrims in Saudi Arabia have started their movement from Madinah to Makkah as the next phase of the 2026 Hajj operation officially gets underway.

The transition began on Thursday after the pilgrims completed a four-day stay in Madinah, one of the key spiritual stops before proceeding to perform the main Hajj rites in Makkah.

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) confirmed the development, noting that the movement is being coordinated in line with approved schedules and welfare arrangements for Nigerian contingents.

According to the commission, four designated airlines — Max Air, Umza Airline, Air Peace, and Flynas — have so far transported 9,756 Nigerian pilgrims to Saudi Arabia as part of the ongoing airlift operation.

NAHCON also urged pilgrims who intend to visit the Rawdah, the revered burial chamber of Prophet Muhammad in Madinah, to work closely with their respective State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards for proper coordination.

The commission explained that arrangements have already been made to guide officials on booking procedures, stressing that access to the Rawdah is strictly controlled due to high demand and crowd management rules.

Pilgrims were advised to remain patient and comply with instructions from religious scholars and officials to ensure smooth movement and proper observance of Hajj rites.

NAHCON further clarified that while visiting the Rawdah is considered a spiritual privilege, it is not a requirement for the validity of Hajj, adding that such opportunities are granted by divine will.

The movement to Makkah marks a key milestone in the pilgrimage process as Nigerian pilgrims now prepare for the peak rituals of Hajj in the holy city.