The Independent Hajj Reporters (IHR) Media Monitoring Committee has commended the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and the four approved air carriers for the smooth commencement of the 2026 Hajj airlift operation.

This is contained in an interim report issued by the committee and signed by its Chairman, Malam Nasiru Lawal, made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Kaduna. The committee said it had been monitoring the ongoing transportation of Nigerian pilgrims to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia under the coordination of NAHCON.

According to the report, the monitoring team adopted a “no-see” approach to ensure objectivity and independence in assessing the exercise without direct interference or prior notice to stakeholders.

The committee noted that the carriers had largely adhered to approved flight schedules, contributing to a seamless and coordinated offshore airlift operation.

It disclosed that, as at the time of filing the report, a total of 17,362 pilgrims had been successfully airlifted to Saudi Arabia through 41 flight operations.

While commending the progress recorded so far, the committee expressed concern over operational lapses observed at some embarkation centres.