The Niger State Pilgrims’ Welfare Board has convened a strategic stakeholders’ meeting yesterday,as preparations enter an advanced stage for the 2026 Hajj airlift to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
According to the Public Relations Officer of the Board, Jibrin Usman Kodo, the meeting, chaired by the Executive Secretary, Sheikh Muhammad Awwal Aliyu, brought together key representatives from the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Nigerian Immigration Service, Nigeria Customs Service, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), aviation authorities, security agencies, and health officials to fine-tune operational arrangements for the exercise.
In his remarks, the Executive Secretary expressed satisfaction with the level of preparedness, noting that significant progress has been recorded.
He emphasized that all necessary measures are being put in place to ensure a seamless and hitch-free airlift operation.
The Director of Operations, Malam Attahiru Bala Dukku, provided updates on flight schedules, highlighting ongoing collaboration with relevant authorities to guarantee the timely transportation of all intending pilgrims.
Also speaking, the Director of Welfare Services, Hajiya Rukayya Muhammad Bawa, briefed stakeholders on the status of the flight manifest, assuring that intending pilgrims will have adequate access to the manifest to avoid last-minute complications.
Deliberations at the meeting focused on addressing challenges associated with the screening process at both the Hajj Camp and the airport.
Stakeholders underscored the importance of effective inter-agency coordination as a critical factor for success.
The Executive Secretary stressed that resolving identified bottlenecks will ensure smooth processing and movement of pilgrims, thereby minimizing delays during screening procedures.
The Board reaffirmed its commitment to delivering a well-coordinated and efficient Hajj operation, assuring intending pilgrims of a smooth and comfortable journey from departure to arrival in Saudi Arabia.