Hajj Flakes – 18th Dhul Hijjah 1447 AH
By Abdullahi Yusuf
1. The return airlift of Nigerian pilgrims has commenced, with 1,546 pilgrims transported home in three flight operations so far.
2. Pilgrims from Nasarawa State formed the bulk of the first batch of returnees as the homebound phase of the 2026 Hajj exercise gathers momentum.
3. Kebbi State pilgrims have also arrived safely in Nigeria, marking another milestone in the ongoing return operations.
4. Ogun State pilgrims are preparing to begin their return journey following the successful completion of the 2026 Hajj rites.
5. NAHCON has advised pilgrims to comply strictly with approved baggage regulations and avoid carrying prohibited items or Zamzam water in checked luggage.
6. The commission also reassured Hajj carriers of continued government support as return operations continue across participating states.
7. More than 39,000 volunteers supported over 1.7 million pilgrims during the 2026 Hajj, providing services across the holy sites, border points, Makkah and Madinah.
8. Saudi authorities say the volunteer workforce operated through a coordinated digital command system designed to improve response time and service delivery throughout the pilgrimage.
9. NAHCON has commended state pilgrims boards, medical teams, Ulamas, traditional leaders, media organisations and other stakeholders for their contributions to the successful conduct of the 2026 Hajj.
10. The Amirul Hajj for Plateau State has congratulated pilgrims on the successful completion of their Hajj rites and announced that return flights for the state will commence on June 9.
11. He also called for reforms in pilgrims administration, stressing the need for direct dealings between intending pilgrims and pilgrims welfare boards.
12. Bangladesh has so far received more than 21,000 returning pilgrims from Saudi Arabia following the completion of this year’s Hajj exercise.
13. Bangladeshi authorities disclosed that 44 pilgrims died during the pilgrimage, while hundreds received medical attention in Saudi Arabia.
14. Flights between Kuwait and Saudi Arabia have experienced temporary disruptions following security-related developments affecting operations at Kuwait International Airport.
Did you know/ fun facts
15. More than 1,300 people died during the 2025 Hajj, with extreme heat identified as a major factor as temperatures reached about 47°C (117°F).
16. To help pilgrims cope with the heat, Saudi authorities distribute safety guidance encouraging the use of umbrellas, light-colored clothing, and hydration awareness.
17. Saudi Arabia spends billions of dollars on crowd management, cooling systems, transportation, and pilgrim services during Hajj.
18. Children under the age of 12 were barred from participating in the 2026 Hajj as part of measures aimed at improving safety amid large crowds and harsh weather conditions.
19. The cost of Hajj can range from approximately $4,000 to $20,000 depending on the country of departure, travel package, and accommodation level.
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