The head of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Jalal Arabi, announced on Sunday that Nigerian pilgrims will begin returning from Saudi Arabia on June 22, 2024.
Arabi shared this news in Abuja during a briefing on the first phase of the 2024 Hajj operations.
He stated that 120 flights have already taken Nigerian pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for the pilgrimage.
Arabi expressed gratitude, saying, “Nobody thought there was going to be a 2024 Hajj. I’m happy to say that Allah has not put us to shame.”
He also praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Vice President, state governors, and other key figures for their support.
“The pilgrims also persevered and were determined to embark on the journey. They have made up their mind that they want to go at all costs. We are happy for the success so far,” Arabi added.
He confirmed that all Nigerian pilgrims will be airlifted to Saudi Arabia before the deadline, with the last group leaving by tomorrow morning.
Moreso, he assured that despite some challenges, the Commission is addressing each issue as it arises.
“Close to 66 thousand pilgrims are been catered for. There are bound to be issues but we are tackling them one after the other,” he concluded.
