Nigeria will begin the 2026 Hajj airlift on May 3. The first flight will depart from Gateway International Airport. Saudi carrier Flynas will operate the inaugural trip.
This marks the first time pilgrims from Ogun State will depart directly from Abeokuta. The development follows the completion of the new airport.
Other flights will also take off the same day. Umza Aviation Services and Max Air will depart from Abuja with pilgrims from Kogi and Nasarawa states. Air Peace will fly Oyo State pilgrims from Lagos. Another Flynas flight will leave from Birnin Kebbi.
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria said its staff and members of the National Medical Team have already travelled ahead to Saudi Arabia. They will prepare for the arrival of Nigerian pilgrims.
NAHCON advised pilgrims to strictly follow their flight schedules. Airlift will run by zones, and each airline will move to the next zone after completing one. Any pilgrim who misses their flight may face delays and regrouping.
The commission also directed pilgrims to travel in groups of 45. Their Nusuk cards will be ready in Saudi Arabia. Pilgrims should know their group members and keep contact with their leaders and state officials.
NAHCON Chairman, Ismail Abba Yusuf, assured that all arrangements are in place for a smooth Hajj exercise.
