NAHCON Commends Lagos, Southwest Pilgrims, Assures Smooth Return Flights

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has lauded pilgrims and officials from Lagos and other Southwest states for their discipline, maturity, and cooperation during the 2026 Hajj exercise in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The commendation came during an official visit by the commission’s management team to the Southwest pilgrims’ camp in Muna, where discussions centered on pilgrims’ welfare, Hajj operations, return flight arrangements, and preparations for future pilgrimages.

The meeting commenced with opening remarks by Ally Esin, who introduced key dignitaries and executive members in attendance. Among those present were the Southwest NAHCON Commissioner, Dr. Tajudeen Abefe Oladejo; representative of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Professor Mahfouz Adedimeji; Director of Administration and Human Resources, Alhaji Alidu Shutti; former Executive Secretary of the Oyo State Pilgrims Welfare Board, Hajia Khadijat Olanipekun; and several other NAHCON officials.

Speaking during the engagement at the Lagos State tent in Mina, Lagos State Commissioner for Home Affairs and Amir-ul-Hajj, Olanrewaju Ibrahim Layode, expressed concerns over certain aspects of the Hajj exercise. While acknowledging efforts made during the pilgrimage, he noted that the overall experience from departure in Lagos through Madinah, Makkah, Mina, and Arafat fell short of expectations.

Layode highlighted issues relating to the cleanliness of some facilities and surroundings, describing the situation as inconsistent with Nigeria’s status as a leading nation. He assured that the observations would be thoroughly discussed during the post-Hajj review session with NAHCON.

Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Religious Affairs (Islam) and Chairman of the State Hajj Ad-hoc Committee, Dr. Ahmad Jebe, appreciated NAHCON officials for the visit, describing such interactions as crucial to improving Hajj operations.

He stressed the need for stronger collaboration among stakeholders and urged that departure schedules for pilgrims be strictly adhered to in future exercises to avoid operational disruptions.

Chairman of the Osun State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Dr. Maruf Olawale Ishola, commended NAHCON officials for their commitment and dedication to the welfare of Nigerian pilgrims. He also praised the orderly conduct of pilgrims throughout the exercise and prayed for the successful completion of the pilgrimage.

While acknowledging improvements in the operation, Ishola noted that preparations for the 2026 Hajj exercise were constrained by limited time. He expressed confidence that better planning and coordination would further enhance future pilgrimages.

In his address, Dr. Oladejo applauded leaders of the Southwest contingent for their exemplary leadership and commended pilgrims for their patience, understanding, and cooperation throughout the exercise.

The Commissioner assured pilgrims that return flights to Nigeria would follow the same sequence in which pilgrims arrived in Saudi Arabia. He disclosed that consultations were ongoing to ensure seamless transportation back home and urged pilgrims to remain calm as arrangements were being finalized.

Oladejo also cautioned pilgrims against exposing themselves unnecessarily to the harsh Saudi Arabian weather. According to him, avoiding prolonged exposure to extreme heat would help prevent illnesses and other health complications associated with the scorching temperatures.

He further reminded pilgrims to comply with approved luggage regulations, advising them not to exceed the stipulated allowance of two 23-kilogram bags and one eight-kilogram hand luggage. Excess baggage, he said, should be shipped through cargo services to prevent delays and inconveniences at airports.

The Commissioner disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu played a significant role in resolving issues surrounding additional charges imposed by airlines during the Hajj operation. He consequently urged pilgrims to continue offering prayers for the President’s wisdom and success in governing the country.

Oladejo also conveyed apologies on behalf of the NAHCON Chairman, Ambassador Ismail Yusuf Abba, for any shortcomings experienced during the exercise. He reserved special commendation for the Lagos State contingent, describing its members as disciplined, mature, and cooperative throughout the pilgrimage.

In his remarks, Professor Adedimeji praised the leadership of the NAHCON chairman and urged pilgrims to sustain the spiritual values, discipline, and lessons acquired during Hajj upon their return to Nigeria.

He added that while the commission might not immediately announce the fare for the 2027 Hajj exercise, the eventual cost is expected to remain close to the current rate, subject to minor adjustments. Adedimeji also observed that the Nigerian Naira had recently emerged as one of Africa’s best-performing currencies.

The meeting concluded with renewed commitments by stakeholders to strengthen collaboration and improve future Hajj operations, even as NAHCON reassured pilgrims of a smooth and orderly return journey to Nigeria.