First group of Lagos pilgrims departs for Mecca for the 2026 Hajj.

The first group of Lagos State pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj has departed from Madinah to continue the pilgrimage in Makkah.

After spending four days in prayer and other religious activities at the Prophet’s Mosque, the pilgrims left Madinah in high spirits.

At the same time, the second and third groups of Lagos pilgrims who arrived in Madinah on Sunday have begun Ziyarah, visiting significant Islamic historical sites in the city.

These visits allowed the pilgrims to reflect on Islamic history, the sacrifices of early Muslims, and to deepen their spiritual preparation before the main Hajj rites in Makkah.

Sites visited included Masjid Quba, the first mosque built in Madinah; Mount Uhud, the site of the historic Battle of Uhud; Masjid Qiblatain, where Prophet Muhammad was instructed to change the direction of prayer from Jerusalem to Makkah; Jannatul Baqi, the burial ground of many companions of the Prophet; and Sab’ah Masajid, also known as the Seven Mosques, associated with the Battle of the Trench.

In related news, 343 Lagos State pilgrims—169 men and 174 women—have safely arrived at King Abdulaziz International Airport for the 2026 Hajj exercise.

The first flight carrying the pilgrims left the Pilgrims and Cargo Terminal of Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Ikeja on Friday, May 8, 2026.

They were transported aboard a Flynas aircraft, flight number XY8504.

Speaking to journalists, Lagos State Commissioner for Home Affairs and Amir-ul-Hajj, Hon. Olanrewaju Ibrahim Layode, assured pilgrims and their families that adequate welfare arrangements had been made for their stay in Saudi Arabia.

He said that Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu had approved all necessary measures to ensure the comfort and well‑being of the pilgrims both in Nigeria and in Saudi Arabia.

“The Governor, Mr Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu has given approval for necessary arrangements to ensure that pilgrims receive adequate support both here in Nigeria and in Saudi Arabia. We encourage all pilgrims to remain law‑abiding, prayerful, and be worthy ambassadors of Lagos State and Nigeria throughout their stay in the Holy Land,” he said.

Some pilgrims also expressed satisfaction with the coordination and preparation by the Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, describing the smooth departure and arrival process as evidence of the government’s commitment to the welfare, safety and comfort of pilgrims during the Hajj exercise.