The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has announced that the airlifting of Nigerian pilgrims for the 2025 Hajj will commence on May 6.
PLATFORM TIMES reports that NAHCON’s Commissioner of Operations, Inspectorate, and Licensing, Anofiu Elegushi, disclosed this on Monday during the signing of airlift agreements with four selected airlines—FlyNas, Air Peace, Max Air, and Umza Air Limited—at the Hajj House in Abuja.
Elegushi stated that Saudi Arabia will open its airspace for incoming pilgrims on April 29, but Nigeria’s inaugural flight is scheduled for May 6 to align with the standard Hajj timeline.
“According to information from the Saudi authority, we are looking forward to April 29 as the day Saudi will open their airspace for Hajj,” he said.
“But as far as Nigeria is concerned, we are still looking at May 6 to be our inaugural flight, in shaa Allah, in order for us to meet up with the normal time frame for the Hajj.”
Elegushi also revealed that NAHCON is making efforts to remove the dollar component from airline payments, ensuring that airlines are paid in their local currencies with corresponding exchange rates.
“The era of waiting endlessly for payment is over,” he stated.
“The percentage of payment that will be made will be enough for them to finish the operation, and after a little reconciliation, the balance will be paid immediately.”
NAHCON Chairman Abdullahi Usman reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to ensuring a smooth and efficient airlift process for Nigerian pilgrims.
“The airlift of pilgrims is one of the most significant aspects of the Hajj operation,” Usman said.
“It requires absolute professionalism, efficiency, and dedication. This process is not just about transportation; it is about fulfilling a spiritual obligation with dignity, safety, and comfort.”
He emphasized that the four selected airlines were chosen based on their reliability, operational capacity, and ability to provide top-notch service to pilgrims.
“Our pilgrims’ comfort, safety, and convenience remain paramount,” Usman added.
“From pre-boarding services to in-flight experience and post-arrival logistics, we expect nothing short of excellence.”
NAHCON has been working with airlines and other stakeholders to ensure the smooth airlifting of 75,000 pilgrims from various states across Nigeria.
Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
