The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has assured Nigerian pilgrims in Saudi Arabia that the return airlift operation is expected to gain momentum in the coming days.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, NAHCON’s Assistant Director of Information and Publications, Fatima Sanda Usara, said the Commission is working closely with State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards and approved airlines to ensure all pilgrims are returned to Nigeria by June 28.
“Efforts are being intensified in collaboration with the State Pilgrims’ Boards and the approved airlines to make sure that all Nigerian pilgrims are back home by the 28th of June,” she stated.
NAHCON attributed the current delay to the usual peak Hajj season air traffic, where many countries are attempting to return their pilgrims simultaneously.
“The delay is due to heavy air traffic during the peak Hajj period. Airport flight slots are managed by the Saudi General Authority of Civil Aviation, and Nigeria has not yet received enough slots to move our large number of pilgrims quickly,” Usara explained.
To address this, the Commission says it is actively engaging Saudi authorities to secure more flight slots. “Currently, FlyNas is operating two flights per day, but we are working hard to secure better flight schedules for UMZA Aviation, Air Peace, and Max Air. With the deployment of larger aircraft, the pace of the return journey will improve significantly,” she added.
NAHCON also expressed gratitude to the pilgrims and officials for their patience and understanding throughout the process. “We appreciate the patience of the pilgrims and their officials. Please be assured that NAHCON and the State Pilgrims’ Boards are working round the clock to ensure a quicker and smooth return journey for all,” the statement concluded.
By: Mubarak Mahmood