2026 Hajj: First batch of Lagos pilgrims proceeds to Makkah
The first batch of Lagos State pilgrims participating in the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage has departed Madinah for the holy city of Makkah to continue the spiritual exercise.
The pilgrims reportedly left Madinah in high spirits after spending four days engaged in prayers and other religious activities at the Prophet’s Mosque.
Meanwhile, the second and third batches of Lagos pilgrims who arrived in Madinah on Sunday have commenced Ziyyarah, visits to notable Islamic historical sites within the city.
The visits offered the pilgrims an opportunity to reflect on Islamic history, the sacrifices of early Muslims and deepen their spiritual preparations ahead of the major Hajj rites in Makkah.
Among the sites visited were Masjid Quba, regarded as the first mosque built in Madinah; Mount Uhud, the location of the historic Battle of Uhud; Masjid Qiblatain, where Prophet Muhammad was instructed to change the direction of prayer from Jerusalem to Makkah; Jannatul Baqi, the burial ground of many companions of the Prophet; and Sab’ah Masajid, also known as the Seven Mosques, linked to the Battle of the Trench.
In a related development, no fewer than 343 Lagos State intending pilgrims, comprising 169 males and 174 females, have safely arrived at King Abdulaziz International Airport for the 2026 Hajj exercise.
The inaugural flight conveying the pilgrims departed from the Pilgrims and Cargo Terminal of Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, on Friday, May 8, 2026.
The pilgrims were airlifted aboard a Flynas aircraft with flight number XY8504.
Speaking with journalists, the Lagos State Commissioner for Home Affairs and Amir-ul-Hajj, Hon. Olanrewaju Ibrahim Layode, assured pilgrims and their families that adequate welfare arrangements had been put in place for them throughout their stay in Saudi Arabia.
According to him, Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu approved all necessary measures to ensure the comfort and well-being of the pilgrims both in Nigeria and Saudi Arabia.
“The Governor, Mr Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu has given approval for necessary arrangements to ensure that pilgrims receive adequate support both here in Nigeria and in Saudi Arabia. We encourage all pilgrims to remain law-abiding, prayerful, and be worthy ambassadors of Lagos State and Nigeria throughout their stay in the Holy Land,” he said.
Some of the pilgrims also expressed satisfaction with the level of coordination and preparation by the Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, describing the smooth departure and arrival process as a reflection of the government’s commitment to the welfare, safety and comfort of pilgrims during the Hajj exercise.
2026 Hajj: First batch of Lagos pilgrims proceeds to Makkah
