The Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, has officially inaugurated the Aviation Monitoring Committee for the upcoming 2026 Hajj exercise.
The move is to facilitate a successful and efficient Hajj operation in Nigeria
The inauguration ceremony took place at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja, the nation’s capital.
In his remarks, Professor Usman charged the newly inaugurated committee to serve as diligent gatekeepers, entrusted with the critical mandate of ensuring transparent and impartial monitoring of all aviation-related matters.
He emphasised that the committee is a functional and not a decorative body, reflecting the Commission’s zero tolerance for failure and its unwavering commitment to the welfare of pilgrims.
“For the Nigerian Government, under the visionary leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, facilitating this spiritual journey for its citizens is not just a statutory duty; it is a sacred trust. We are committed to ensuring that every Nigerian pilgrim performs their Ibadah in comfort and safety,” Professor Usman stated.
The Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) emphasised that, despite the Commission’s consistent advancements in airlift logistics over the years, the aviation aspect remains the most critical and prominent element of Hajj operations.
“This Committee is not a decorative body; it represents our commitment to pilgrim welfare. You are the gatekeepers, entrusted with the responsibility of monitoring the aviation matters of our pilgrims,” he reiterated.
Delivering the welcome address, the Commissioner of Operations and Licensing, Anofi Elegushi, expressed his gratitude to the Chairman for the confidence bestowed upon the committee.
Elegushi affirmed the team’s complete commitment to fulfilling its mandate.
“Our mission is straightforward and solemn to guarantee safe, secure, and dignified air transport for pilgrims. We will not compromise the safety of Nigerian pilgrims,” he promised.
The Committee’s Terms of Reference include:
•Reviewing, participating in, and evaluating all documents submitted by applicant airlines and cargo carriers for the 2026 Hajj.
•Inspecting and assessing the readiness of designated airports for Hajj operations.
•Making observations and recommendations on airport preparedness.
•Monitoring inbound and outbound flights at all departure centres to ensure compliance with airlift agreements and industry standards.
•Monitoring the quality of in-flight services in line with industry standards.
•Ensuring compliance with the Commission’s luggage policy by carriers and pilgrims.
•Recommending appropriate actions or penalties against defaulting carriers or State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards.
•Liaising with the Central Security Committee and the Task Force on the Abscondment of Pilgrims to provide support when required.
•Undertaking any other actions necessary for the success of Hajj airlift operations and making related recommendations.
Professor Usman urged the committee members to carry out their duties with the highest levels of integrity, patriotism, and professionalism, reminding them that the eyes of millions of Nigerian Muslims are upon them.
He expressed his complete confidence in their collective expertise and urged them to approach their assignment as a solemn responsibility in service to both their faith and the nation.