By Festus Fifen

The Nigeria Federal Capital Territory Administration FCTA has successfully airlifted the third batch of intending pilgrims for the 2025 Hajj to Madina, Saudi Arabia, following a brief delay caused by logistical challenges related to hotel accommodation arrangements in the Holy City.

The affected pilgrims, who had initially expressed concern over the delay, departed the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport Abuja aboard a FlyNas mini Airbus with 421 passengers on board. The airlift marked a major milestone in the FCT’s Hajj operations, leaving only one more flight scheduled for Wednesday, May 21, 2025.

Prior to the departure, the FCT Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board had assured prospective pilgrims that all efforts were being made to resolve the temporary hitch and guarantee their safe and smooth journey to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Director of the Board, Malam Kadiri Edah, was personally on ground at the Hajj Camp in Bassan Jiwa to oversee the entire process from documentation to boarding. He commended the pilgrims for their patience and understanding during the delay and reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to delivering top-notch services throughout the Hajj exercise.

“We sincerely thank our pilgrims for their cooperation and understanding. We faced a brief setback regarding accommodation logistics in Madina, but everything has now been resolved. Our team is working round the clock to ensure a smooth experience for all,” Malam Edah stated.

Some of the pilgrims who spoke to reporters expressed satisfaction with the handling of the situation, particularly praising the Board officials for their proactive communication and presence at every stage of the process.

“I was worried at first, but seeing how the officials kept updating us and attending to our needs gave me hope. Now I’m just grateful to be on my way to perform the Hajj,” said Fatima Usman, one of the airlifted pilgrims.

With the successful departure of the third batch, the FCT has now airlifted the majority of its registered pilgrims for this year’s pilgrimage. The final flight is expected to complete the exercise smoothly on the scheduled date.

The FCT Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has continued to receive commendations for its improved coordination and commitment to pilgrims’ welfare, a development that bodes well for the success of Nigeria’s overall Hajj operations in 2025.