By Abdullahi Yusuf

1. NAHCON Airlifts 36,359 Pilgrims: Final phase of Nigeria’s Hajj operations begins. 5,494 pilgrims remain. Air Peace and UMZA Aviation to conclude operations by May 24.
2. Kwara Pilgrims Depart After Delay: Final batch of 140 pilgrims from Kwara State airlifted yesterday at 6:42 p.m. via Max Air, marking the end of the state’s 2025 Hajj schedule.
3. Max Air Hits 13,000 Mark: The airline confirms successful airlift of 13,000 Nigerian pilgrims across 23 completed flights.
4. Pilgrim from Yobe Duped: In Makkah, a Nigerian pilgrim was scammed of his $1,000 BTA; received only $90 in return after trying to convert funds for himself and his brother’s wife.
5. Nigerians Pilgrims complain of poor medical access and delays in Nusuk card issuance, affecting Haram access. Plateau and Katsina pilgrims hardest hit. NAHCON says efforts ongoing via WhatsApp platforms.
6. Over 717,000 Pilgrims Arrive in Saudi: As of today, 717,044 international pilgrims have landed for Hajj 2025,  691,429 by land, 22,794 by air, and 2,821 by sea. This is 49% of all issued visas.
7. Saudi Arabia launches remote eSIM activation via mobile apps using biometric verification, ensuring seamless connectivity upon arrival.
8. Cameroon Flags Off 2025 Hajj from Garoua: Minister Atanga Nji Paul oversaw departure of the first batch of pilgrims via reopened Garoua Int’l Airport. He credited President Biya’s support and noted a 1.5 billion FCFA government subsidy.
9. Indonesian Hajj health officials report 99 cases of pneumonia among pilgrims, with one fatality. Heat levels in Makkah and Madinah reached 41–47°C, raising dehydration and infection risks.