The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has signed the 2026 Hajj Airlift Agreement as part of preparations for the forthcoming pilgrimage, charged participating airlines to strictly adhere to operational standards, timelines, and safety requirements.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, NAHCON Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Ismail Yusuf Abba, described the agreement as a major milestone in the Commission’s readiness for the 2026 Hajj exercise. He stressed that airlift operations remain a critical component of Hajj arrangements and must be executed with professionalism, precision, and strong commitment.
Abba commended participating airlines for their previous performances but maintained that compliance with the provisions of the agreement is non-negotiable. According to him, Hajj operations are strictly time-bound and require seamless coordination to ensure Nigerian pilgrims are transported to and from the Saudi Arabia within approved schedules.
He disclosed that the agreement contained clearly defined compliance measures, including recovery timelines for airlines that fall behind schedule and contingency arrangements to prevent operational disruptions. The NAHCON boss assured stakeholders that the Commission would exercise effective oversight to safeguard the interests of pilgrims.
“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,” he said.
In his remarks, NAHCON Commissioner for Operations, Inspectorate and Licensing, Anofiu Elegushi, described the agreement as evidence of strengthened collaboration and shared commitment to service excellence. He noted that lessons from the 2025 Hajj airlift exercise would guide improvements for the 2026 operations.
Elegushi emphasized that punctuality, operational efficiency, adequate aircraft deployment, and effective management of operational challenges are essential to achieving a successful airlift exercise.
Speaking on behalf of participating airlines, Executive Director of Max Air, Shehu Wada (SAN), appreciated NAHCON for the confidence reposed in the carriers. He described the Hajj airlift as a national assignment and assured the Commission of the airlines’ commitment to safety, punctuality, and strict adherence to agreed schedules.
The ceremony concluded with the formal signing of the agreement, reinforcing NAHCON’s resolve, in partnership with the airlines, to deliver a smooth, efficient, and successful 2026 Hajj airlift operation.
