Nigeria: Nigerian hajj pilgrims depart Madinah for Makkah after 4-day stay

By Zuleihat Owuiye, Mamos Nigeria

Nigerian pilgrims have begun moving from Madinah to Makkah to continue the 2026 Hajj rites, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) confirmed on Friday 

According to NAHCON, the movement started after pilgrims spent four days in Madinah for prayers and visits to holy sites. Four airlines handling Nigeria’s Hajj operation — Max Air, Umza Airline, Air Peace, and Flynas — have so far transported 9,756 pilgrims to Saudi Arabia.

Pilgrims who still wish to visit the Rawdah, the burial chamber of Prophet Mohammed in Madinah, before leaving were advised to coordinate through their state pilgrims’ boards. NAHCON said officials have been trained on booking procedures, but access remains limited due to crowd control measures.

“Access to the Rawdah is strictly subject to space availability and approved bookings,” the commission stated. It urged pilgrims to remain patient, orderly, and follow guidance from their Ulama.

NAHCON emphasized that visiting the Rawdah is a blessed opportunity but not a requirement for a valid Hajj. “Allah grants such opportunities according to His will,” it added.

The commission reassured pilgrims that state welfare boards are on ground to assist with logistics and ensure a smooth transition to Makkah for the main Hajj rituals.