The sacred journey of a lifetime has officially commenced for thousands of Nigerian pilgrims participating in the 2025 Hajj, as they began their solemn movement from the holy city of Madinah to Makkah — the spiritual epicentre of Islam.
The transition, which started earlier this week, follows the pilgrims’ stay in Madinah where they offered prayers at the Prophet’s Mosque (Masjid An-Nabawi) and visited key religious sites such as Quba Mosque, Mount Uhud, and the Qiblatain Mosque. This initial phase, deeply symbolic in Islam, is traditionally observed to spiritually prepare the faithful ahead of the main Hajj rites in Makkah.
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) confirmed that the transportation of pilgrims across various states was being carried out in organized batches in collaboration with Saudi Arabia’s Hajj authorities. Special arrangements have been made to ensure the comfort, safety, and welfare of Nigerian pilgrims during the intercity journey, which spans over 400 kilometres.
Speaking from Madinah, a senior NAHCON official reiterated the Commission’s commitment to a seamless and spiritually fulfilling Hajj experience for Nigerians this year. “We are pleased with the orderliness and devotion shown by our pilgrims so far. The movement to Makkah has begun smoothly, and our officials are on the ground to assist and guide them throughout the journey,” he said.
The 2025 Hajj exercise is particularly significant as it marks another full-scale pilgrimage following the post-pandemic recovery phase. With over 95,000 Nigerian pilgrims expected to perform Hajj this year, the country remains one of the largest contingents globally.
Upon arrival in Makkah, the pilgrims will begin the next stage of the Hajj rites, which includes the Umrah (lesser pilgrimage) and the eventual journey to Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah — all central pillars of the annual pilgrimage and spiritual rebirth.
Several state pilgrims’ welfare boards have also confirmed successful movement of their respective contingents, praising the coordination and support received from Saudi officials and Nigerian handlers alike.
For many of the pilgrims, this journey is the fulfilment of a lifelong aspiration. The emotions are high, with prayers of peace, forgiveness, and national prosperity echoing across the caravans making their way to Islam’s holiest city.
As the 2025 Hajj progresses, Nigerian authorities have assured the public of continued updates and real-time monitoring to ensure the safety, dignity, and spiritual fulfilment of every pilgrim on this divine journey.
