NAHCON signs hajj airlift agreement with airlines
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has signed ‘Hajj Airlift Agreement’ with airlines. The agreement is part of its preparations for the forthcoming pilgrimage. The participating airlines were told
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has signed 'Hajj Airlift Agreement' with airlines.
The agreement is part of its preparations for the forthcoming pilgrimage.
The participating airlines were told to strictly adhere to operational standards and timelines.
Speaking during the signing, the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NAHCON, Ambassador Ismail Yusuf Abba, described the event as a defining milestone in the commission’s readiness for the this year's Hajj.
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He stressed that the airlift operation is a critical component of arrangements for the pilgrimage and must be handled with utmost professionalism, precision, and commitment.
He commended the airlines for their previous performances but emphasised that strict compliance with the provisions of the agreement remains non-negotiable.
He noted that Hajj operations are time-bound and require careful coordination to ensure that all Nigerian pilgrims are transported to and from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia within stipulated timelines.
Ambassador Abba explained that the agreement includes clear compliance measures, including recovery timelines for any airline that falls behind schedule, as well as alternative arrangements where necessary to prevent disruptions.
He assured stakeholders that NAHCON would diligently carry out its oversight responsibilities to protect the interests of the pilgrims.
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He warned, “Any airline that performs excellently will continue to enjoy our confidence and partnership, but any airline that underperforms or fails to meet agreed timelines will be sanctioned in line with the provisions of the agreement. The interest of Nigerian pilgrims remains our top priority.”
Commissioner for Operations, Inspectorate and Licensing, Prince Anofiu Elegushi, described the agreement as a reflection of strengthened collaboration and shared commitment to service excellence.
He said the 2025 Hajj airlift exercise provided valuable lessons that would guide improvements in the 2026 operations.
Prince Elegushi emphasised that the agreement represents a binding commitment to safety, transparency, and effective service delivery. He reiterated that punctuality, operational efficiency, adequate aircraft deployment, and effective management of operational challenges are critical to the success of the exercise.
Speaking on behalf of the participating airlines, Shehu Wada SAN, Executive Director and representative of Max Air, expressed appreciation to NAHCON for the confidence reposed 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 agreed schedules.
