NAHCON Confirms Monday Start For Return of 2025 Hajj Pilgrims
By: Israel Adeleke
OPEN TELEVISION NAIJA (OTN) News reports that the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has announced that the return journey of Nigerian pilgrims from the 2025 Hajj will officially commence on Monday, June 9, marking the 13th day of Dhul-Hijjah in the Islamic calendar.
On News further reports that the disclosure was made on Friday in Minna by NAHCON Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Professor Abdullahi Saleh, during a message to the Muslim Ummah in celebration of Eid al-Adha.
Saleh revealed that the first batch of returning pilgrims would include contingents from Imo State, flying with Air Peace; Bauchi State, with Max Air; and Kebbi and Sokoto States, with Flynas.
“The return journey for Nigerian pilgrims will begin on the 13th of Dhul-Hijjah, corresponding to June 9. We urge the first set of pilgrims to prepare adequately and pray for a smooth and safe return operation for all,” Professor Saleh stated.
He praised the Nigerian pilgrims for their discipline and cooperation throughout the Hajj exercise, attributing the overall success of the operations to their commendable conduct.
He also expressed appreciation to stakeholders across the country for their coordinated efforts.
While felicitating with Muslims on the occasion of Eid al-Adha, Saleh emphasized the spiritual lessons embedded in the Hajj rituals.
He encouraged reflection on the faith and obedience demonstrated by key figures in Islamic history, including Hajara (Hagar), the mother of Prophet Isma’il, and Prophet Ibrahim.
“Let us remember how trust in Allah by Sayyidatuna Hajara led to the miracle of Zamzam, and how the sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim, who left his family in a barren land trusting in Allah, brought forth the thriving city of Makkah,” he said.
Saleh also extended appreciation to the State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards and NAHCON staff, many of whom served diligently even while in the sacred state of ihram. Their contributions, he noted, were essential to the smooth execution of this year’s pilgrimage.
Furthermore, the NAHCON chairman acknowledged the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima, whose backing, he said, played a vital role in ensuring a seamless Hajj experience for Nigerian pilgrims.
“We also recognise the quality services provided during the Mashair rituals in Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah. NAHCON remains committed to improving Hajj operations through the continued collaboration of all parties involved,” Saleh concluded.
OTN News, however, observes that the 2025 Hajj, one of the world's largest annual religious gatherings, drew tens of thousands of Nigerian pilgrims to Saudi Arabia. With the spiritual rites concluded, preparations are now in full swing to ensure the safe return of the faithful to their respective states in Nigeria.
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