2026 Hajj: First Batch of 315 Oyo State Pilgrims Arrive in Medina

2026 Hajj: First Batch of 315 Oyo State Pilgrims Arrive in Medina 

The first batch of 315 intending pilgrims from Oyo State has arrived safely in Medina, Saudi Arabia, to commence the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage, marking the official start of the state’s participation in this year’s spiritual exercise.

The pilgrims departed Nigeria on Monday from the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos and landed at about 9:00 a.m. local time at the Prince Mohammed Bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Medina aboard an Air Peace flight.

Their arrival signals the beginning of their religious journey, as they settle in the holy city ahead of further movement to Mecca for the core Hajj rites, including key spiritual obligations such as Tawaf and the pilgrimage to Arafat.

The delegation was accompanied by senior officials of the Oyo State Pilgrims Welfare Board, including Alhaji Rasheed Yusuf Olayiwola Biznillah, Alhaji Amusat Ayuba Agboola, Alhaji (Imam) AbdulMajeed Olanase, Alhaji Daud Bolaji Afolabi, Alhaji Abdulrahmon Bakare Agbotomokekere, and the Board Secretary, Mr. Kamorudeen Babatunde Fasasi.

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Officials confirmed that the entire journey—from departure in Lagos to arrival in Medina—was conducted in an orderly and well-coordinated manner, with strict adherence to aviation and pilgrimage protocols.

Speaking prior to departure in Lagos on behalf of the Board Chairman, Sheikh Wahab Atere Hashim Olamide, JP, Mr. Fasasi assured pilgrims of a smooth and well-organised pilgrimage experience. He noted that adequate logistical, welfare, and spiritual arrangements had been put in place to ensure a safe and rewarding 2026 Hajj exercise.

He also addressed concerns raised by some pilgrims, stating that all necessary preparations had been completed to support their comfort and religious fulfilment throughout their stay in Saudi Arabia.

Fasasi further disclosed that pilgrims who paid above the approved official Hajj fare for the 2026 exercise would receive refunds in line with government-approved guidelines, a move aimed at ensuring transparency and accountability in the pilgrimage process.

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), which oversees the coordination of Nigerian pilgrims, continues to work with state pilgrim welfare boards to ensure smooth transportation, accommodation, and welfare services for all intending pilgrims.

The Hajj pilgrimage remains one of the largest annual religious gatherings in the world, drawing millions of Muslims to Saudi Arabia each year. Nigeria consistently contributes one of the largest contingents to the global pilgrimage, with thousands expected to participate in the 2026 exercise.

More batches of pilgrims from Nigeria are expected to arrive in the coming days as preparations intensify for the commencement of full Hajj rites in the holy cities of Medina and Mecca.

2026 Hajj: First Batch of 315 Oyo State Pilgrims Arrive in Medina