NAHCON Confirms Final Hajj Flights, Assures Timely Nusuk Card Distribution

With 36,359 Pilgrims Already in Saudi Arabia

By Fatima Sanda

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has announced that the final phase of its 2025 Hajj airlift operations has commenced, with a total of 36,359 Nigerian pilgrims already successfully transported to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

According to the latest update contained in a press release by NAHCON’s Assistant Director of Information and Publication, Fatima Sanda Usara, only 5,494 pilgrims under the government quota remain to be airlifted, as arrangements for mop-up flights are now in motion.

Air Peace, one of the designated carriers, is scheduled to conclude its final Hajj flight on May 24, having secured a flight slot for that date. UMZA Aviation will also wrap up its operations from Kaduna on the same day, with just three flights left. Max Air will complete its own operations a day later, on May 25, following an extension due to continued pilgrim registration in some of its assigned states.

In a special arrangement, FlyNas will conclude its flights on May 30, with its last departure carrying a full load of pilgrims, including the Governor of Kebbi State.

The Commission has outlined its final mop-up operations to take place on May 24 in Kaduna (UMZA), Abuja (Air Peace), and Kano (Max Air). Max Air’s ultimate flight is expected to depart from Katsina on May 25.

Meanwhile, NAHCON has addressed concerns surrounding the Nusuk card, an essential digital ID for pilgrims in Saudi Arabia. The Commission reassured those yet to receive their cards that resolution is underway. The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, in collaboration with designated service providers, has been directed to expedite the distribution process. NAHCON is actively monitoring the situation to ensure compliance and timely delivery.

In a related development, NAHCON highlighted its VIP service arrangement through Rawaf Mina, which secured 2,800 Tent A+ bed spaces. This remains the only VIP location confirmed for the 2025 Hajj, with distribution to interested parties ongoing since the April 23 announcement.

NAHCON Chairman, Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for the progress achieved and lauded the patience and discipline of Nigerian pilgrims. He also acknowledged the dedication of stakeholders who contributed to the successful execution of the airlift operations so far.

The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring a seamless Hajj experience for all pilgrims, with continued oversight on both logistics and welfare services.

Fatima Sanda Usara
Assistant Director, Information and Publication For: Chairman/CEO, NAHCON

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