The 2025 Hajj pilgrimage officially came to a close on Sunday, June 8, as the last group of pilgrims bid farewell to Mina and made their final journey back to the Grand Mosque in Makkah to perform the “Tawaf al-Wadaa”, the farewell circumambulation, marking the end of this year’s spiritual journey.
Pilgrims from across the globe, including thousands from Nigeria, took part in the five-day religious obligation, which began on the 8th of Dhul Hijjah and concluded on the 12th. The final rites, including the symbolic stoning of the devil at the Jamrat in Mina, were completed in an atmosphere of solemn devotion and gratitude.
Saudi authorities confirmed that this year’s pilgrimage was conducted smoothly, despite the massive turnout that saw over 1.8 million Muslims from different countries converging on the holy sites. Comprehensive security, health, and logistical arrangements were credited with maintaining order and ensuring the safety of all participants.
For many, the closing of the Hajj is an emotional moment, a culmination of prayers, personal sacrifices, and acts of worship that span days of spiritual reflection and discipline. In Mina, a sense of reverence swept through the camps as pilgrims dismantled their tents, exchanged farewells, and prepared to return home as ‘Alhajis’ and ‘Alhajas’, a title of honour earned through the fulfillment of one of Islam’s five pillars.
Nigerian pilgrims, who formed one of the largest contingents from sub-Saharan Africa, expressed gratitude to both the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and the Saudi government for what many described as an “orderly and spiritually fulfilling” experience. Officials confirmed that no major incidents were recorded among the Nigerian delegation.
With the 2025 Hajj now concluded, attention will shift to post-Hajj support, including health monitoring, flight coordination, and reintegration of returning pilgrims. Religious leaders have also urged pilgrims to uphold the virtues and lessons of Hajj in their daily lives, stressing that the true reward of the pilgrimage lies in righteous living after the journey.
The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, in its closing statement, thanked all participating countries and agencies for their cooperation and reaffirmed its commitment to improving the pilgrimage experience each year.
