The Federal Government has approved four airlines to handle the transportation of Nigerian pilgrims for the 2025 Hajj, signaling a significant milestone in preparations for the sacred journey. This decision was confirmed by the Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Prof. Abdullahi Saleh Usman, during a formal announcement on Sunday, January 12, 2025.
Air Peace Limited, Fly-Nas, Max Air, and UMZA Aviation Services Limited emerged as the selected carriers after a rigorous screening process. According to Prof. Usman, the selection reflects the Presidency’s commitment to ensuring a smooth and efficient Hajj operation for Nigerian Muslims.
“This approval underscores our dedication to providing safe, reliable, and high-quality services to pilgrims,” Usman stated.
The selection process involved 11 airline companies vying for the contract to airlift thousands of Nigerian pilgrims. NAHCON inaugurated a 32-member Aviation Screening Committee on November 26, 2024, to evaluate these contenders meticulously.
The committee included representatives from various aviation and regulatory bodies, such as the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), and the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET). Additional members were drawn from the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), Nigerian Customs Service (NCS), and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), ensuring a robust and transparent assessment process.
According to Fatima Sanda Usara, NAHCON’s Assistant Director of Information and Publication, “The committee’s comprehensive work guaranteed that only the most qualified carriers were chosen.”
In addition to the four main carriers, NAHCON approved three companies—Aglow Aviation Support Services Limited, Cargozeal Technology Limited, and Qualla Investment Limited—to handle excess cargo. These operators will manage the transportation of extra luggage, a common feature of the Hajj season.
NAHCON emphasized the importance of adhering to all commitments made during the screening process. Prof. Usman congratulated the successful companies and urged them to meet the high expectations of the commission and pilgrims.
“We trust that these carriers will uphold their promises and deliver services that reflect the spirit of Hajj,” he said.
As part of preparations, NAHCON signed the 2025 Hajj Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. The ceremony, held in Jeddah on January 12, 2025, formally outlines Nigeria’s engagement with Saudi authorities for the year’s pilgrimage.
Prof. Usman led a high-powered delegation to Saudi Arabia, including Senator Abubakar Sani Bello, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, and Hon. Jafaru Muhammed Ali, Chairman of the House Committee on Muslim Pilgrimage.
The Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dr. Abdulfatah Masahat, represented the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia during the signing. This MoU signifies a vital step in ensuring seamless coordination between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia for the 2025 Hajj.
The Hajj is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and a religious obligation for Muslims who are physically and financially capable of undertaking the journey. Each year, tens of thousands of Nigerian pilgrims travel to Saudi Arabia to participate in this spiritual exercise, which involves visiting holy sites in Mecca and Medina.
The Nigerian government, through NAHCON, has made strides in improving the logistics of this annual pilgrimage. Over the years, partnerships with reputable airlines and strict compliance with international aviation standards have enhanced the safety and comfort of pilgrims.
The 2025 MoU includes agreements on pilgrim accommodation, transportation, and feeding during their stay in Saudi Arabia. It also addresses health and security measures to safeguard the welfare of pilgrims.
Dr. Abdulfatah Masahat, representing the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, praised Nigeria’s efforts in organizing the pilgrimage and reaffirmed the Kingdom’s commitment to supporting Nigerian pilgrims.
“We value the strong relationship between Saudi Arabia and Nigeria and are committed to making the Hajj experience memorable for your pilgrims,” he remarked.
Despite progress, challenges persist, particularly in managing the expectations of thousands of pilgrims and ensuring that all logistics align with Saudi Arabia’s requirements. NAHCON has pledged to address these issues proactively.
“We understand the magnitude of this responsibility and are working tirelessly to ensure no pilgrim is left behind,” Prof. Usman assured.
Pilgrims have been advised to cooperate with NAHCON and the approved carriers to facilitate smooth operations. Emphasis has been placed on adhering to baggage weight limits and other regulations to avoid delays and inconveniences.
