The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria on Monday said it had so far transported 18,401 pilgrims from Mecca, Saudi Arabia to Nigeria.
About 76,000 Nigerians comprising 66,000 pilgrims transported by State Pilgrims Welfare Boards and 10,000 by Tour Operators performed this year’s Hajj.
In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Mecca, the Director of Public Affairs of the commission, Alhaji Uba Mana, said the exercise had been smooth since its commencement on September 28.
Mana also said he was optimistic the transportation would be completed on schedule as the air carriers, state pilgrims welfare agencies and the pilgrims were fully cooperating with NAHCON officials.
He said: “Pilgrims have been told not to exceed 32kg for luggage and 8kg for hand bags.
“Most of them have limited their luggage to the stated weight.
“This made the exercise fast.”
The director urged pilgrims to be patient and wait for their turn but should always be ready to move at short notice.
NAN.