2025 Hajj ends peacefully as Nigerian pilgrims begin return journey

DDM News

The 2025 Hajj pilgrimage has officially ended with Saudi Arabia declaring it successful and peaceful.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the pilgrimage, held for Islamic year 1446, attracted over 1.67 million pilgrims, including thousands of Nigerians.

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) confirmed Nigerian pilgrims will begin returning home from June 9.

This marks the official conclusion of the annual spiritual journey for Nigerian pilgrims.

Despite a peaceful pilgrimage, seven Nigerian pilgrims sadly lost their lives due to health complications.

The deceased pilgrims were from Oyo, Abia, Edo, Plateau, and Kano states.

Saudi doctors attributed the deaths to cardiac arrest and heart failure.

All deceased pilgrims were buried in Saudi Arabia according to Islamic burial rites.

Officials say the 2025 Hajj recorded fewer Nigerian deaths compared to previous years.

In 2024, at least 30 Nigerian pilgrims were reported dead during the pilgrimage.

The lower death toll this year reflects improved planning and healthcare preparedness.

Many Nigerian pilgrims expressed gratitude for successfully performing the sacred rites.

They described the experience as spiritually enriching and deeply memorable.

Several pilgrims said the journey strengthened their faith and spiritual connection.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that 1,673,230 pilgrims participated in this year’s Hajj.

Of that number, 1,506,576 pilgrims came from outside Saudi Arabia.

An additional 166,654 domestic pilgrims participated, including Saudi citizens and residents.

The total included 877,841 male and 795,389 female pilgrims.

Prince Mishaal bin Majed praised King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed for their leadership.

He credited the peaceful Hajj to their vision and the effectiveness of support agencies.

“The pilgrims performed their rites in safety and peace,” Prince Mishaal stated during the briefing.

He lauded the successful implementation of operational plans and strategic coordination among agencies.

He also commended the pilgrims for complying with Hajj guidelines and regulations.

Officials say this cooperation contributed significantly to the season’s success.

Measures like crowd control, health services, and transport coordination were strictly enforced.

These contributed to a smooth and safe pilgrimage for all participants.

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah said planning for the 2026 Hajj begins immediately.

Authorities aim to improve logistics and address any challenges encountered this year.

Prince Mishaal reiterated the Kingdom’s pride in hosting millions of global pilgrims.

He emphasized Saudi Arabia’s commitment to excellent services at the holy sites.

NAHCON has assured Nigerian pilgrims of a smooth and well-coordinated return process.

Pilgrims are urged to be patient and cooperative during the return journey.

The 2025 Hajj will be remembered for improved organisation and lower casualty numbers.

It also reflected stronger health measures and enhanced spiritual satisfaction.

Saudi Arabia reaffirms its dedication to serving pilgrims from all over the world.

The Kingdom promises to continue improving the Hajj experience in the coming years.

Kindly share!!

For Diaspora Digital Media Updates click on Whatsapp, or Telegram. For eyewitness accounts/ reports/ articles, write to: citizenreports@diasporadigitalmedia.com. Follow us on X (Fomerly Twitter) or Facebook