Nigerian pilgrims for the 2025 Hajj are set for a home-bound journey, as Saudi Arabia, on Monday, announced the successful and peaceful conclusion of the Hajj pilgrimage for the Islamic year 1446.
Over 1.67 million pilgrims performed the sacred rites, including Nigerians.
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, while announcing the conclusion of the Hajj, scheduled June 9 for the commencement of return flights for Nigerian pilgrims.
Some of the pilgrims expressed joy for the opportunity to perform the sacred rites.
However, seven pilgrims were reported dead during the exercise, following health complications and would not make the return journey, as they were buried in Saudi Arabia according to Islamic rites.
Pilgrims from Oyo, Abia, Edo, Plateau, and Kano reportedly died, with doctors in Saudi Arabia linking their deaths to cardiac arrest and heart failure.
The number of deaths in the 2025 Hajj was, however, fewer compared to the 2024 record, as no fewer than 30 Nigerians died during the exercise.
On Monday, Saudi Arabia, in an announcement made by the Deputy Emir of the Makkah Region, Prince Saud bin Mishaal, praised the Kingdom’s leadership for ensuring the event was free of any major health, security, or service-related incidents.
According to official figures, 1,506,576 pilgrims arrived from outside Saudi Arabia, while 166,654 were domestic pilgrims, comprising citizens and residents.
Mishaal said, “Total pilgrims of 1,673,230, including 877,841 male pilgrims and 795,389 female pilgrims.”
Prince Mishaal commended the efforts of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz, and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, attributing the smooth conduct of the pilgrimage to their leadership and the operational efficiency of the supporting agencies.
“The pilgrims performed their rites in safety and peace, thanks to the distinguished execution of operational plans,” he said.
He also lauded the pilgrims’ compliance with regulations as a key factor in the season’s success.
He confirmed that planning for the next Hajj season would begin immediately, emphasising the Kingdom’s pride in its continued service to the holy sites and visitors from around the world.