The Chairman/CEO of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, has formally inaugurated the Aviation Monitoring Committee for the 2026 Hajj exercise, a move aimed at ensuring the safety and comfort of Nigerian pilgrims during their spiritual journey.
Speaking at the event held in the Commission’s Board Room at Hajj House, Abuja, Professor Usman charged the newly appointed committee members with the critical task of monitoring all aviation matters pertaining to the Hajj operations with transparency and accountability. He stressed that the committee’s work would play a key role in the success of the Hajj airlift, an area he described as both “sensitive and visible.”
“For the Nigerian Government, under the leadership of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, facilitating this spiritual journey is not just a statutory duty but a sacred trust,” Usman remarked. “The committee is entrusted with ensuring that the airlift logistics and all aviation-related matters align with the highest safety standards, prioritizing the welfare of the pilgrims.”
The committee, which is set to oversee crucial aspects of Hajj aviation, will monitor key areas such as the evaluation of airline and cargo carrier documents, the readiness of airports, and compliance with airlift agreements. Other tasks include ensuring that the quality of in-flight services meets industry standards, managing the adherence to luggage policies, and recommending actions against carriers or authorities that fail to comply with the agreed regulations.
Delivering the welcome address,Prince Anofi Olanrewaju Elegushi, Commissioner of Operations and Licensing at NAHCON , emphasized the committee’s commitment to ensuring safe and dignified air transport for all Nigerian pilgrims. He assured that the safety of the pilgrims would remain non-negotiable.
“We are fully committed to this mission, and we will not compromise on the safety and well-being of Nigerian pilgrims,” Elegushi stated.
The committee’s Terms of Reference also include collaborating with the Central Security Committee and Task Force to address issues like pilgrim abscondment and recommending necessary actions to ensure a smooth airlift operation.
Professor Usman concluded the inauguration by urging the committee members to approach their roles with integrity, professionalism, and patriotism. He reminded them that millions of Nigerian Muslims would be relying on their vigilance to ensure a seamless and successful 2026 Hajj operation.
The establishment of the Aviation Monitoring Committee marks a significant step in NAHCON’s ongoing efforts to enhance the efficiency and safety of Hajj operations, reaffirmed its commitment to providing Nigerian pilgrims with the best possible experience during the annual pilgrimage.
