Pilgrims from Lagos State who participated in the 2026 Hajj in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia are expected to commence their return to Nigeria next week, according to the Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Saturday by the Board’s Public Affairs Officer, Taofeek Lawal.
Lawal said the announcement was made by the Amir-ul-Hajj and Lagos State Commissioner for Home Affairs, Olanrewaju Ibrahim Layode, following an update released in Makkah by the Board’s Secretary, AbdulHakeem Ajomagberin.
According to the statement, arrangements have been concluded for the airlift of about 1,600 Lagos pilgrims in line with the return schedule approved by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, NAHCON.
The board stated that, barring any unforeseen circumstance, the first batch of pilgrims will depart Saudi Arabia on June 8, 2026. Subsequent flights are scheduled for June 10, June 11, June 12 and June 13, when the final group is expected to return home.
Layode advised the pilgrims to comply strictly with the approved baggage regulations to avoid delays during departure.
He reminded them that each pilgrim is entitled to two checked bags weighing 23 kilograms each and one hand luggage not exceeding eight kilograms, warning against carrying water and other prohibited items.
The commissioner also appealed to the pilgrims to remain patient and cooperate with officials throughout the return process, assuring them that adequate arrangements had been made for the successful airlift of all participants.
While expressing satisfaction with the conduct of the exercise, Layode commended Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and Deputy Governor, Obafemi Hamzat, for their support and encouragement, which he said contributed significantly to the success of the state’s Hajj operations.
He also acknowledged the contributions of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Islamic Matters and Chairman of the 2026 Hajj Ad-hoc Committee, Ahmad Abdullahi Jebe, members of the committee, the board’s management and staff, as well as Islamic scholars and Hajj guides, for their commitment to ensuring a smooth and successful pilgrimage.
