By GARBA MUHAMMAD, Kaduna

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has officially concluded the 2025 Hajj return operations, as the final flight from Saudi Arabia landed in Kaduna on Tuesday morning July 2, 2025, with 87 pilgrims onboard.

The aircraft departed Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport at 10:30 a.m., bringing an end to the return leg of the pilgrimage which spanned 17 days beginning on June 13. According to a statement by Fatima Sanda Usara,Assistant Director Information and Publication.

NAHCON Chairman, Professor Abdullah Saleh Usman, expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for a smooth and successful Hajj season. Speaking during the farewell to the final batch of pilgrims, the Chairman commended the collaborative efforts of state pilgrims’ boards, airline operators, and other service providers.

He said the discipline and obedience demonstrated by the pilgrims contributed significantly to the overall success of the operations.

Professor Usman urged the returning pilgrims to continue praying for Nigeria, especially as the country faces multiple challenges. He also encouraged them to sustain the spirit of unity and friendships they built during the Hajj.

“Hajj is not only a spiritual journey but also a chance to build bridges of understanding and brotherhood,” he said.

The Chairman was accompanied at the airport by top NAHCON officials, including the Commissioner of Operations, Prince Anofiu Elegushi; Commission Secretary, Dr. Mustapha Alli; and Special Assistant to the President on Hajj, Ameen Amshi.

They all joined in praying for the safe return of the pilgrims and reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to delivering improved Hajj services in line with global best practices.

This year’s Hajj saw thousands of Nigerian pilgrims complete their spiritual obligations in the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah, with NAHCON coordinating logistics, transportation, and accommodation.