Nigerian pilgrims performing the 2026 Hajj have commenced their movement from Madinah to Makkah on Thursday.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that an update released by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria stated that the movement began after the pilgrims spent four days in Madinah.
According to the commission, the four official airlines handling the Hajj operation, Max Air, Umza Airline, Air Peace and Flynas, have so far transported 9,756 Nigerian pilgrims to Saudi Arabia.
The commission added that the airlift operation has continued smoothly as preparations intensify for the major Hajj rites in Makkah.
It also urged pilgrims who wish to visit the Rawdah (Prophet Mohammed’s burial chamber in Madinah) before departing to Makkah, to liaise with the States,’ Pilgrims Boards for proper coordination.
“NAHCON wishes to assure Nigerian contingent to the pilgrimage that state pilgrims’ welfare boards’ officials have already been guided and trained on the procedures for booking Rawdah visits for their pilgrims.
“However, pilgrims are kindly reminded that, due to congestion and crowd management measures, access to the Rawdah is strictly subject to space availability and approved bookings.
“Pilgrims are therefore advised to remain patient and orderly, and to heed the guidance of their Ulama regarding the validity and acceptance of their Hajj rites,” it said.
It said that visiting the Rawdah was a blessed opportunity, but not a condition for the validity of Hajj.
“Allah grants such opportunities according to His will,” NAHCON said.
