By Mubarak Mahmood
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria has announced that the inaugural flight for the 2026 Hajj exercise from Nigeria will depart on May 3rd, 2026, from Gateway International Airport.
This development marks a significant milestone, as it will be the first time pilgrims from Ogun State will depart directly from their state capital, following the construction of the new airport.
The announcement was made in a statement issued by the Deputy Director of Information and Publications of NAHCON, Fatima Sanda Usara and made available to journalists in Abuja.
According to the statement, other flights scheduled for the same day include Umza Aviation Services Limited and Max Air departing from Abuja with pilgrims from Kogi and Nasarawa States respectively.
Also, Air Peace will airlift pilgrims from Oyo State through Lagos, while another Flynas flight is scheduled to depart from Birnin Kebbi.
Meanwhile, NAHCON staff, including ad hoc members of the National Medical Team, have already departed today, April 28th, ahead of the pilgrims, to make necessary preparations for their arrival in Saudi Arabia.
The Commission has advised intending pilgrims that airlift operations will be conducted one zone at a time, stressing that once a carrier concludes operations in a zone, it will not return and any pilgrim who misses their scheduled flight may face delays and regrouping.
In addition, pilgrims have been instructed to travel strictly within their designated groups of 45, ensure they are familiar with their group members and obtain contact details of their group leaders and accompanying state officials, as NAHCON Chairman, Ismail Abba Yusuf, assures of a smooth and successful 2026 Hajj exercise.
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