NAHCON SECURES 2026 HAJJ AIRLIFT AGREEMENT

By: Balogun Ibrahim
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has officially signed the 2026 Hajj Airlift Agreement, urging all participating airlines to adhere strictly to operational standards and schedules for the upcoming pilgrimage.
At the signing ceremony, NAHCON Chairman and CEO, Ambassador Ismail Yusuf Abba, described the event as “a defining milestone in the commission’s readiness for the 2026 Hajj,” emphasizing that the airlift is a crucial aspect of the pilgrimage.
In a statement issued on Wednesday in Abuja and signed by Shafi Mohammed on behalf of the Commission’s Deputy Director of Information and Public Relations, Abba highlighted that the operation must be conducted with “utmost professionalism, precision, and commitment.”
He further stressed that Hajj activities are time-sensitive, requiring meticulous coordination to ensure that pilgrims are transported to and from Saudi Arabia within the designated timelines.
Abba emphasised that adherence to the agreement is mandatory.
He stated, “Airlines that deliver excellent performance will maintain our trust and partnership, while those that underperform or fail to meet the agreed timelines will face sanctions in accordance with the agreement. The welfare of Nigerian pilgrims remains our highest priority.”
He revealed that the agreement includes provisions for recovery timelines for airlines that experience delays, as well as alternative arrangements to prevent any disruption to the pilgrimage, assuring stakeholders that NAHCON will rigorously oversee its implementation.
In his address, the Commissioner for Operations, Inspectorate and Licensing, Anofiu Elegushi, said the agreement underscored strengthened collaboration and a shared dedication to service excellence.
He highlighted that lessons learned from the 2025 Hajj airlift would inform improvements in the 2026 operations, stressing that punctuality, operational efficiency, adequate aircraft deployment, and effective management of challenges are vital for success.
Representing the participating airlines, Shehu Wada (SAN), Executive Director of Max Air, expressed gratitude to NAHCON for the trust placed in them. He described the Hajj airlift as “a national assignment” and assured the Commission of the airlines’ commitment to safety, punctuality, and adherence to the agreed schedules.
The ceremony concluded with the formal signing of the agreement, reinforcing NAHCON’s determination, in partnership with the airlines, to ensure a smooth and efficient 2026 Hajj airlift, the statement added.
