FCTA BEGINS RETURN AIRLIFT OF PILGRIMS FROM SAUDI ARABIA

By: Ahmad Saleh

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has commenced the return airlift of its pilgrims from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia following the successful completion of the 2026 Hajj exercise.

The inaugural return flight, operated by Air Peace with flight number APO 7929, departed Jeddah International Airport on Tuesday at approximately 3:55 p.m. Saudi time (1:55 p.m. Nigerian time), conveying 316 FCT pilgrims directly to the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

According to the Board, additional return flights have been scheduled for June 11, 12, 13, and 15 to facilitate the transportation of the remaining pilgrims back to Nigeria.

Speaking during post-Arafat meetings held at the various FCT pilgrims’ accommodation centres in Makkah, the Director of the Board, Malam Kadiri Edah, reminded pilgrims of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) luggage policy. He explained that each pilgrim is entitled to two checked-in bags weighing 23 kilograms each, in addition to an 8-kilogram hand luggage allowance.

He noted that the arrangement provides pilgrims with an additional 14 kilograms compared to the previous luggage policy, which allowed a total of 40 kilograms comprising a 32-kilogram checked bag and an 8-kilogram hand luggage.

Malam Edah also cautioned pilgrims against carrying excess luggage and prohibited items, such as liquids, gases, and sharp objects, to avoid delays and complications on the return journey.

Reaffirming the Board’s commitment to the welfare of pilgrims, the Director expressed satisfaction with the conduct of the Hajj operations and wished all pilgrims safe travels and joyful reunions with their families.

More than 1,540 pilgrims from the FCT participated in the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage.