Hajj 2026: Nigerian pilgrims begin movement from Madinah to Makkah

Nigerian pilgrims in Madinah have begun their movement to Makkah on Thursday as part of the ongoing Hajj 2026 operations.

The transition was confirmed by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, which said the movement commenced after pilgrims completed a four-day stay in Madinah.

NAHCON stated that four approved airlines, Max Air, Umza Airline, Air Peace, and Flynas, have transported a total of 9,756 Nigerian pilgrims to Saudi Arabia so far.

The commission said the airlift exercise is progressing smoothly under coordinated arrangements involving state pilgrims’ welfare boards.

Rawdah visit guidelines

NAHCON also advised pilgrims intending to visit the Rawdah, the sacred burial chamber of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), to work closely with their respective state officials for proper scheduling.

“Pilgrims are kindly reminded that, due to congestion and crowd management measures, access to the Rawdah is strictly subject to space availability and approved bookings,” the commission stated.

It further urged pilgrims to remain patient, orderly, and to follow guidance from Islamic scholars regarding the rites of Hajj.

The commission emphasised that visiting the Rawdah, though highly rewarding, is not a compulsory condition for the validity of Hajj.

“Allah grants such opportunities according to His will,” NAHCON said, reinforcing the spiritual understanding of the pilgrimage process.

NAHCON reiterated its commitment to ensuring a smooth pilgrimage exercise, noting that officials of state pilgrims’ welfare boards have been trained on Rawdah booking procedures and overall pilgrim management.

The movement to Makkah marks a key phase in the 2026 Hajj exercise, as Nigerian pilgrims proceed to complete the core rites of the pilgrimage.