The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria says it closed the registration of pilgrims for the 2025 Hajj on May 2 to enable it to concentrate on the airlift of pilgrims.

Any Hajj fare deposit received after May 2 would be duly refunded, NAHCON said in a statement on Wednesday.

An extension was earlier made possible through the intervention of NAHCON chairman Abdullahi Saleh, despite the closure of the contract by March 25.

“Stoppage of further registration became necessary in order for the Commission to concentrate on airlift of pilgrims, with sufficient resources to ensure their comfort.

“Any Hajj fare deposit received after May 2 will be duly refunded. Meanwhile, movement to Saudi Arabia for the Hajj commences from May 9,” the statement said.

It added that the inaugural flight for this year’s Hajj was scheduled to take off from Owerri, with Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo as host.

NAHCON also mentioned that 315 Imo, Abia and Bayelsa pilgrims were scheduled to board the Air Peace airline for the trip.

Vice-President Kashim Shettima is expected to grace the occasion as a special guest. 

“Already, the NAHCON advance team arrived in Owerri earlier on May 7 to monitor preparations for the inaugural flight,” NAHCON said.

It disclosed that registration for the 2025 Hajj ended with a record of 40,671 pilgrims.

“Four flights are scheduled to take off simultaneously on May 9 for the pilgrimage. The flights are as follows: Max Air from Bauchi, two Flynas flights, one from Kebbi and the other from Osun through the Lagos departure centre.

“There is a fourth flight from Niger, totaling 2,528 pilgrims to arrive at Madina on the first day. Further details will be shared as the activities unfold,” said the statement. 

(NAN)