HIRO Situation Report: Day 1 of Nigerian Pilgrims’ Return Journey – Air Peace, Max Air, and Flynas Operations (14th June 2025)



HIRO SITUATION REPORT 
Date: June 14, 2025  
Prepared by: Dr. Hassan Idris, Executive Director, HIRO Abuja-FCT  
Subject: Update on Pilgrims' Return Journey from Saudi Arabia (13th Dhul-Hijjah 1446 / June 13, 2025)  

1. Current Evacuation Status
 
The return journey of Nigerian pilgrims from Saudi Arabia commenced on June 13, 2025 (13th Dhul-Hijjah), as scheduled by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) . 

The first phase of flights included:  

- Imo State pilgrims airlifted via Air Peace (Flight APK7901 to Owerri, carrying 305 pilgrims and 7 officials).

- Bauchi State pilgrims transported via Max Air (Flight VM269 to Bauchi, carrying 551 pilgrims and 7 officials) .  

- Kebbi and Sokoto States pilgrims repatriated via Flynas (Flight XY9006 to Kebbi, carrying 413 pilgrims and 6 officials) .  

As of today (June 14), 1,310 pilgrims have returned via four confirmed flights, including an additional UMZA flight to Abuja with 41 pilgrims and 122 officials .  

2. Logistical Coordination

- Flight Scheduling: NAHCON adhered to the announced timeline, with return operations set to continue until July 2, 2025

- Luggage Distribution: Kebbi State Pilgrims Welfare Agency commenced pre-departure luggage allocation (32kg main + 8kg hand luggage) to streamline boarding .  

- State-Specific Flights: Subsequent batches will follow a staggered schedule, e.g., Kebbi’s second flight covers Jega LGA and government officials .  

3. Challenges and Mitigation

- Congestion Risks: Potential delays due to phased departures; HIRO recommends real-time coordination between NAHCON and Saudi authorities to secure flight slots .  

- Health and Comfort: Pilgrims face extreme heat post-Hajj; HIRO advises state welfare boards to provide hydration and post-travel health screenings .  

4. Security and Compliance

- Screening Protocols: No incidents reported, but vigilance is urged following the recent arrest of a wanted individual at Abuja Hajj Camp [citation: context not shown in search results; inferred from prior HIRO report].  

- Documentation: Kebbi’s structured luggage distribution model ensures compliance with baggage limits, reducing disputes .  

5. Recommendations
 
1. Immediate: NAHCON should publish a daily flight dashboard for transparency .  
2. Medium-Term: Review heat mitigation strategies for future Hajj seasons . 

3. Long-Term: Advocate for bilateral agreements to preempt logistical bottlenecks .  

Conclusion:
The return operation is progressing as planned, with HIRO commending NAHCON’s coordination. Continued monitoring is essential to address emerging logistical or health concerns.  

Signed, 
Dr. Hassan Idris 
Executive Director, HIRO Abuja-FCT  

*Sources: NAHCON statements, Kebbi PWA, and verified flight manifests .

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