NAHCON to Begin 2025 Hajj Return Flights on June 9

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has announced that return flights for Nigerian pilgrims who took part in the 2025 Hajj will begin on Sunday, June 9.

The Chairman and CEO of NAHCON, Professor Abdullahi Saleh, made the announcement in a statement issued from Minna on Friday, as he extended warm Eid al-Adha greetings to Muslims across the country.

“All praise is due to Allah for allowing us to witness another Eid al-Adha,” Prof. Saleh said. “On behalf of NAHCON, I congratulate all Muslims, especially our pilgrims who were blessed to witness the Day of Arafat. May Allah accept your sacrifices and prayers.”

According to him, the return flights will commence on the 13th of Dhul-Hijjah (June 9) and will include pilgrims from Imo State (Air Peace), Bauchi State (Max Air), and Kebbi and Sokoto States (Flynas).

He urged the first batch of pilgrims to prepare for their journey back home and encouraged them to pray for the success and safety of the entire return process.

Beyond logistics, Prof. Saleh emphasized the spiritual lessons of Hajj, calling on Muslims to reflect on the deep meanings of trust, obedience, and sacrifice:

“Remember the unwavering faith of Sayyidatuna Hajara, which led to the miracle of Zamzam, and the sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim, who left his family in the desert, trusting only in Allah. That trust resulted in the blessed city of Makkah.”

He highlighted that trust in Allah, disciplined obedience, and strong leadership are vital elements for the growth of any community or nation.

Prof. Saleh praised the patience and discipline of Nigerian pilgrims during the Hajj, crediting their conduct as key to the success of this year’s operation.

“We appreciate the incredible support from the State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards and the dedication of NAHCON staff, many of whom served while in a state of ihram. Their efforts have not gone unnoticed, and their reward lies with Allah.”

He also acknowledged the contributions of NAHCON board members, ad-hoc staff, and extended special gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima for their support, which he said played a major role in the smooth running of the Hajj.

Prof. Saleh concluded by commending the quality of services at key Hajj sites—Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah, and reaffirmed NAHCON’s commitment to delivering even better results in the future.