2026 Hajj: Keyamo meets Saudi Arabia counterpart, proposes review of BASA
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo has met with the Saudi Minister of Transport and Logistics Services, Engr. Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser as part of efforts to
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo has met with the Saudi Minister of Transport and Logistics Services, Engr. Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral aviation relations and enhance operational efficiency ahead of the 2026 Hajj operations.
The Minister also met with the President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), Mr. Abdulaziz Al-Duailej.
The discussions during the meetings held separately centred around the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) and diplomatic matters aimed at improving cooperation between the two countries in the aviation sector.
Both sides deliberated on the need to review the existing BASA framework to reflect present-day realities and evolving dynamics in global aviation.
According to a statement by the Media Aide to the Minister, Tunde Moshood, both parties examined the existing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in 2015, as it relates to the sharing formula for the annual airlift of pilgrims by designated airlines from Nigeria and Saudi Arabia.
The proposed review, according to the Minister is aimed at ensuring fairness, efficiency, and mutual benefit for both countries.
Other key issues discussed included the allocation of slots to Nigerian designated carriers for the 2026 Hajj operations, as well as the determination of the percentage of pilgrims to be airlifted by airlines from both countries.
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The meetings also addressed operational concerns affecting Nigerian airlines, with focus on enhancing their performance and ensuring seamless Hajj operations this year.
The Minister expressed appreciation to the Saudi authorities for their continued cooperation and support, reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to upholding international aviation standards and fostering strategic partnerships.
The statement noted that the decisions reached during the meeting concerning the 2026 Hajj operations, have been communicated to Nigeria’s designated airlines for implementation.
The Minister was accompanied by the Director-General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Chris Najomo, alongside key Directors from the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development.
