The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has successfully concluded the return airlift operation for Nigerian pilgrims from Saudi Arabia, marking the end of the 2025 Hajj exercise. According to statements released by Fatima Usara, Assistant Director of Information and Publication at NAHCON, the final flight departed Jeddah on Wednesday at approximately 10:30 a.m. This flight carried either 87 or 88 pilgrims back to Kaduna, or Kaduna and Katsina states.

The comprehensive return leg operation spanned between 17 and 20 days, having commenced on June 13, and involved a total of 101 flights. This extensive exercise demonstrated significant logistical coordination to ensure the safe return of all pilgrims.

In his farewell address to the returning pilgrims, Professor Abdullah Saleh Usman, the Chairman of NAHCON, expressed profound gratitude to Allah for granting Nigerian pilgrims a smooth and successful Hajj experience. He attributed this success to the remarkable spirit of unity and cooperation demonstrated by various stakeholders, including officials from State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards, airline operators, and other service providers. Chairman Usman also commended the pilgrims themselves for their commendable adherence to the laid-down Hajj guidelines throughout their sacred journey.

Furthermore, Professor Usman urged the pilgrims to continue their prayers for Nigeria's progress and for the nation to overcome its prevailing challenges. He specifically reminded them to remember the nation’s leaders in their prayers. He emphasized that the sacred pilgrimage offers a unique opportunity to forge enduring bonds and friendships that foster peace and harmony, encouraging them to sustain these valuable relationships built during their time in the Holy Land. Reaffirming NAHCON's unwavering commitment to excellence, the Chairman assured that the commission would continuously strive to improve its services for Nigerian pilgrims, aligning with global best practices to enhance future Hajj experiences.