Nigeria and Saudi Arabia have resolved to review key aviation agreements and operational frameworks to improve coordination and efficiency ahead of the 2026 Hajj operations.
The agreement followed high-level talks in Riyadh involving Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, Saudi Minister of Transport and Logistics Services, Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, and President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), Abdulaziz Al-Duailej.
Both sides also examined operational challenges affecting Nigerian airlines, with commitments to improve efficiency and ensure smoother Hajj logistics in 2026.
Central to the discussions were critical Bilateral Air Services Agreement BASA and diplomatic matters aimed at ‘improving cooperation between both countries in the aviation sector.’
Additionally, they examined the existing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in 2015, particularly as it relates to the sharing formula for the annual airlift of pilgrims by designated airlines from Nigeria and Saudi Arabia. The review is intended to ensure fairness, efficiency, and mutual benefit for both countries.
Other key issues discussed included ‘the allocation of slots to Nigerian designated carriers (flag carriers) for the 2026 Hajj operations, as well as the determination of the percentage of pilgrims to be airlifted by airlines from both countries.’
The meetings also addressed operational concerns affecting Nigerian airlines, with a focus on enhancing their performance and ensuring seamless Hajj operations this year.
The engagements were marked by frank, constructive, and productive exchanges, with both sides demonstrating a strong commitment to deepening aviation ties and resolving all outstanding issues in a mutually beneficial manner.
Keyamo expressed appreciation to the Saudi authorities for their continued cooperation and support, reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment ‘to upholding international aviation standards and fostering strategic partnerships.”
Decisions reached during the meetings, particularly those concerning the 2026 Hajj operations, have been immediately communicated to Nigeria’s designated airlines for prompt implementation.
The visit was disclosed in a statement issued by the Minister’s Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Tunde Moshood.
The Minister was accompanied by the Director-General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Chris Najomo, and senior officials from the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development.