The Lagos State Government has completed the airlift of intending pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj exercise to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
With the departure of the final batches from the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, the total number of Lagos pilgrims currently in Saudi Arabia has risen to 1,590 out of the 1,600 initially scheduled for the pilgrimage.
The fourth batch departed on May 12 and 13 with 418 pilgrims made up of 222 males and 196 females, while the fifth and final batch conveyed 145 pilgrims, including 72 males and 73 females.
Meanwhile, pilgrims on the second and third flights have departed Madinah for Makkah to continue the Hajj rites.
In line with Hajj procedures, the pilgrims entered the state of ihram before stopping briefly at the Miqat on the outskirts of Madinah to observe two raka’ats of prayers and declare their intention to perform Umrah in Makkah.
Upon arrival in Makkah, the pilgrims are expected to perform the Tawaf around the Kaabah and the Sa’i between Safa and Marwa before completing other rites associated with Umrah.
After the completion of the rites, the pilgrims will change from the state of ihram into their normal clothing ahead of the commencement of the main Hajj rites.
Pilgrims on the fourth and fifth flights are expected to depart Madinah between Saturday and Sunday to join other Lagos contingents in Makkah ahead of the commencement of the core Hajj activities from the 8th day of Dhul-Hijjah in the Islamic calendar.