Thousands of Nigerian pilgrims have commenced the next leg of their 2026 Hajj pilgrimage, departing the holy city of Madinah for Makkah after completing a four-day stay in the Prophet’s city.
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) confirmed the movement, noting that four designated carrier airlines — Max Air, Umza Airline, Air Peace, and Flynas — have so far airlifted 9,756 pilgrims to Saudi Arabia as part of this year’s Hajj operation.
For pilgrims wishing to visit the Rawdah — the sacred chamber housing the burial site of Prophet Mohammed (SAW) — before leaving Madinah, NAHCON advised them to coordinate with their respective State Pilgrims Welfare Boards, which have already been trained on the official booking procedures for such visits.
The commission, however, cautioned pilgrims that access to the Rawdah remains subject to strict crowd management protocols and space availability, urging worshippers to exercise patience and follow the guidance of their religious scholars.
NAHCON also offered spiritual reassurance, reminding pilgrims that while visiting the Rawdah is a deeply cherished opportunity, it is not a requirement for the validity of Hajj. “Allah grants such opportunities according to His will,” the commission stated.
