The 2026 Hajj operation has begun the airlifting of Pilgrims back to Nigeria, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has successfully airlifting 1,546 Nigerian pilgrims from Saudi Arabia back to Nigeria through three flights. 

The first flight, operated by MaxAir, departed Jeddah for Abuja on June 3 carrying 560 pilgrims from Nasarawa State. On June 4, Flynas transported 426 pilgrims to Kebbi State, while another MaxAir flight carried 560 pilgrims—559 from Nasarawa and one from Katsina—to Abuja. 

NAHCON said the return exercise is progressing according to plan and will continue in phases until all Nigerian pilgrims and officials are transported home. The commission expressed confidence in a smooth operation, citing the logistics and coordination put in place for the 2026 Hajj airlift.