NAHCON signs 2026 Hajj airlift agreement, warning participating airlines to strictly comply with operational standards and timelines

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has signed the 2026 Hajj Airlift Agreement, charging participating airlines to strictly adhere to operational standards and timelines for the pilgrimage.

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Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NAHCON, Ismail Yusuf Abba, described the agreement as “a defining milestone in the commission’s readiness for the 2026 Hajj.”

He emphasised that the airlift operation remains a critical component of the pilgrimage.

According to a statement signed by Shafi Mohammed on behalf of the Commission’s Deputy Director, Information and Public Relations, Abba stressed that the exercise must be handled with “utmost professionalism, precision, and commitment,” noting that Hajj operations are time-bound and require careful coordination to transport pilgrims to and from Saudi Arabia within stipulated timelines.

He warned that compliance with the agreement is non-negotiable.

“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.

Abba disclosed that the agreement contains recovery timelines for airlines that fall behind schedule, as well as alternative arrangements where necessary to prevent disruptions. He assured stakeholders that NAHCON would diligently exercise its oversight responsibilities.

In his remarks, the Commissioner for Operations, Inspectorate and Licensing, Anofiu Elegushi, said the agreement reflected strengthened collaboration and a shared commitment to service excellence.

He noted that lessons from the 2025 Hajj airlift would guide improvements in 2026, highlighting punctuality, operational efficiency, adequate aircraft deployment and effective challenge management as key success factors.

Speaking on behalf of the participating airlines, Shehu Wada (SAN), Executive Director and representative of Max Air, described the Hajj airlift as “a national assignment” and assured the commission of the airlines’ commitment to safety, punctuality and adherence to agreed schedules.

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The ceremony concluded with the formal signing of the agreement, underscoring NAHCON’s resolve, in partnership with the airlines, to deliver a smooth and efficient 2026 Hajj airlift operation.