By Chimezie Godfrey
The Independent Hajj Reporters (IHR) has commended the successful completion of the 2026 Hajj outbound airlift of Nigerian pilgrims within the scheduled timeline, describing the exercise as a major operational achievement despite a few logistical challenges.
In its second assessment report released in Makkah, the IHR 2026 Hajj Media Monitoring Team said the smooth completion of the airlift reflected effective coordination by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and other stakeholders.
The report, signed by the Chairman of the committee, Malam Nasiru Lawal, particularly praised the establishment of additional embarkation centres in Zamfara and Ogun states, noting that the development had eased the burden on intending pilgrims from the affected states.
According to the report, the new centres have eliminated the need for pilgrims to embark on stressful interstate journeys before departure to Saudi Arabia, thereby reducing travel-related stress and improving safety.
The team, however, observed that the expansion of embarkation points had created additional operational demands for Hajj air carriers and NAHCON officials.
It explained that more zonal personnel are now required at different airports, while airlines must also deploy additional ground staff to sustain operations, a situation that may increase operational costs in future Hajj exercises.
On pilgrims’ welfare in Madinah, the monitoring team gave a positive assessment of accommodation arrangements, especially the retention of Markaziya locations close to Masjid Al-Nabawi.
The report stated that the proximity of hotels to the Prophet’s Mosque had continued to improve pilgrims’ comfort and accessibility during their stay in Madinah.
While commending NAHCON for the arrangement, the team urged the commission and State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards to improve the speed of accommodation allocation for arriving pilgrims in order to reduce delays and waiting periods.
The group also noted significant improvement in feeding arrangements compared to previous years, although it advised service providers to improve menu variety for pilgrims.
IHR further described the introduction of the interactive Hajj Companion App by NAHCON as a major milestone in the digitalisation of Hajj operations in Nigeria.
According to the report, the application has strong potential to evolve into a comprehensive platform similar to the Saudi Nusuk system, covering different aspects of Hajj administration and pilgrims’ services.
The organisation, however, recommended stronger collaboration between NAHCON, State Pilgrims Welfare Boards and Private Tour Operators to ensure broader integration and inclusiveness in the application’s development.
As pilgrims prepare for the Masha’ir rites, the team called on all stakeholders to prioritise efficient service delivery and avoid politicising Hajj operations.
It added that additional interim reports would be released after the completion of the 2026 Hajj rites.
2026 Hajj: IHR Commends NAHCON Over Timely Airlift, Flags Logistical Gaps
