No fewer than 1,600 pilgrims from Lagos State who participated in the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will begin their return journey to Nigeria on Monday, June 8.
The Amir-ul-Hajj and Lagos State Commissioner for Home Affairs, Hon. Olanrewaju Layode, disclosed this in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, ahead of the commencement of the pilgrims’ airlift back home.
According a statement by the Head, Public Affairs, Lagos State Muslim Welfare Board, Taofeek Lawal, the airlift schedule released by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) revealed that Lagos pilgrims will be transported in batches, with the first flight scheduled for Monday, June 8, with subsequent flights expected on June 10, 11, 12 and 13, barring any unforeseen circumstances.
Layode urged the pilgrims to cooperate with officials and comply with all travel requirements to ensure a smooth and hitch-free return process.
“We are pleased that our pilgrims successfully completed the Hajj rites, and we look forward to their safe return to Nigeria. We urge all pilgrims to remain patient, orderly and fully comply with the directives of officials throughout the airlift exercise,” he said.
The commissioner also reminded the pilgrims to adhere strictly to the approved baggage allowance and avoid carrying prohibited items.
“Pilgrims are advised to comply with the stipulated luggage requirements of two 23-kilogram bags and one eight-kilogram hand luggage. They should also refrain from packing water and other prohibited items to avoid unnecessary delays during the departure process,” he added.
Layode assured that adequate arrangements had been put in place to ensure that all Lagos pilgrims were successfully airlifted according to schedule.
“We want to reassure our pilgrims that every necessary arrangement has been made for their return journey. We appeal for continued patience and cooperation as everyone will be airlifted safely back home,” he stated.
The Amir-ul-Hajj expressed appreciation to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Deputy Governor Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat for their support and commitment to the welfare of Lagos pilgrims, noting that their encouragement contributed significantly to the success of the state’s Hajj operation.
“We are deeply grateful to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Deputy Governor Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat for their unwavering support and commitment, which greatly contributed to the successful coordination of this year’s pilgrimage exercise,” he said.
Layode also commended the Special Adviser to the Governor on Islamic Matters and Chairman of the 2026 Hajj Ad-hoc Committee, Dr. Ahmad Abdullahi Jebe, members of the committee, officials of the Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Ulamah, Hajj Guides and other stakeholders for their dedication and contributions to the success of the exercise.
He described their collective efforts as instrumental in ensuring the welfare, safety and spiritual fulfilment of Lagos pilgrims throughout their stay in the Holy Land.
