Hajj 2024: NAHCON warns departing pilgrims against carrying Zamzam water

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has banned Nigerian pilgrims from carrying Zamzam water as they return from Saudi Arabia. 

Muhammad Sanda, NAHCON’s head of aviation, made the announcement during the post-Arafat conference in Makkah on Wednesday.

Zamzam water, which is revered by Muslims for its “spiritual significance”, originates from a historic well located within the Masjid al-Haram in Makkah.

Sanda clarified that each pilgrim will receive a five-litre portion of the “holy water” upon arrival. 

He added that the airlifting of pilgrims will begin on June 22 with three flights departing at 6am, 10am, and 10pm daily. 

These flights will carry pilgrims from Kebbi, Nasarawa, and the federal capital territory (FCT) in line with the FIFO (First In, First Out) policy.

The aviation head harped on the strict luggage limit of 40kg per person, including a 32kg check-in limit and an 8kg carry-on limit.

He urged pilgrims and stakeholders to comply with the policies to avoid embarrassment and inconvenience at the airport. 

Sanda noted that all pilgrims will spend the same amount of time in Saudi Arabia.

“The date of return of every pilgrim is 38 days after arrival to the Kingdom,” he added.