By Soliu Oyesiji
A looming crisis may disrupt Nigeria’s participation in the 2026 Hajj, as contracted air carriers have reportedly refused to take part in the airlift of pilgrims over soaring aviation fuel costs.
Findings indicate that the scheduled airlift of Nigerian pilgrims to Saudi Arabia, earlier slated to begin on May 3 with an inaugural flight from Ogun State, is now under serious threat.
A senior stakeholder in the Hajj industry disclosed that all airlines engaged by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria have notified the commission of their inability to proceed with operations due to over 100 per cent increase in the cost of jet fuel.
According to the source, the airlines conveyed their position during a meeting convened by the NAHCON chairman to assess readiness for the airlift.
“During the meeting, all the airlines categorically stated they cannot guarantee operations under the current jet fuel pricing, as it is unprofitable and unsustainable,” the source said.
The development has raised concerns that, without urgent intervention by the federal or state governments to bridge the gap between initial fuel cost projections and current market prices, Nigeria may miss the 2026 Hajj exercise.
The stakeholder warned that the situation is critical, noting that there are less than three days to salvage the airlift schedule.
Meanwhile, other countries have already commenced transporting their pilgrims since April 18, following the opening of airspace for Hajj flights by the General Authority of Civil Aviation.
With less than 24 days to the closure of airports for Hajj operations, the uncertainty surrounding Nigeria’s participation continues to deepen.
