The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has warned Nigerian pilgrims against packing Zamzam water and other prohibited items in their luggage as more pilgrims begin their journey back to Nigeria following the completion of the 2026 Hajj.
The warning comes as the second batch of pilgrims was successfully airlifted to Nigeria on Thursday, June 4.
Muslim News gathered that Flynas flight XY9866 departed Jeddah for Kebbi at 05:53hrs, conveying 426 pilgrims from Kebbi State. The latest flight brings the total number of pilgrims airlifted to 986 in two completed flights since the commencement of return operations on June 3.
The first return flight, MaxAir NGL267, had departed Jeddah for Abuja on Wednesday with 560 pilgrims from Nasarawa State, marking the beginning of the homebound phase of the 2026 Hajj exercise after approximately 30 days in the Kingdom.
More return flights are scheduled for Thursday as NAHCON and its partner airlines continue the phased evacuation of Nigerian pilgrims from Saudi Arabia.
In a statement issued by its management, NAHCON urged pilgrims to strictly comply with the approved baggage allowance to ensure seamless screening and departure procedures.
According to the Commission, each pilgrim is entitled to two checked-in bags weighing 23 kilograms each and one hand luggage not exceeding 8 kilograms.
“Multiple hand luggage will not be condoned,” the Commission stated.
NAHCON further informed pilgrims that luggage screening would take place 48 hours before their departure dates to facilitate early arrival of luggage in Nigeria and expedite clearance procedures upon arrival.
The Commission explained that compliance with the baggage requirements would help ensure smooth screening processes and faster departure formalities.
Pilgrims were specifically cautioned against including Zamzam water or other prohibited items in their luggage, warning that such items would be confiscated during screening and could expose bags to tampering.
The prohibited items include flammable materials such as lighter fluid, lithium batteries and power banks packed in checked baggage, aerosols, excessive quantities of liquids, and sharp objects carried in hand luggage.
Meanwhile, NAHCON commended the four official air carriers participating in the return operation for their cooperation, support and commitment since the commencement of the exercise.
The Commission acknowledged that the airlines commenced operations on schedule despite concerns over the high cost of aviation fuel and other operational challenges.
NAHCON also reassured the carriers of the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting the airlift operation and ensuring that participating airlines do not incur losses in the course of transporting pilgrims back to Nigeria.
The Commission expressed optimism that the return phase would proceed smoothly with the continued cooperation of pilgrims, airlines and relevant stakeholders.
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