The Lagos State Government has announced plans to begin the airlift of its contingent for the 2026 Hajj exercise on May 7.
The Commissioner for Home Affairs, Olanrewaju Ibrahim Layode, disclosed this in a statement issued by the Director of Public Affairs, Taofeek Lawal, while also confirming the inauguration of an ad-hoc committee to coordinate activities for the pilgrimage in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The committee, chaired by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Islamic Matters, Ahmad Abdullahi Jebe, was formally inaugurated by the commissioner at the state secretariat in Alausa, Ikeja.
Layode stated that about 1,600 intending pilgrims from Lagos would be transported in phases, beginning with an initial batch of 345 pilgrims on the first flight.
“The exercise would continue with the second flight on Friday, May 8th; third flight on Sunday, May 10th; fourth on Tuesday, May 12th while the last flight is on Wednesday, May 13th. These arrangements were in line with the schedule released by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria,” he said.
He further revealed that Flynas, the airline designated by NAHCON for the operation, has approved an increase in baggage allowance for pilgrims. Each pilgrim will now be permitted two pieces of checked luggage weighing 23kg each, raising the total allowance to 46kg, while hand luggage remains capped at 8kg.
Addressing members of the newly constituted committee, the commissioner said their selection was based on competence and commitment, adding that they are expected to ensure seamless planning and execution of all Hajj-related activities.
He urged them to carry out their responsibilities with diligence, integrity and a strong sense of duty, in line with the objectives of the Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board.
According to Layode, the committee’s mandate includes overseeing logistics coordination, welfare of pilgrims, accommodation arrangements, medical support and other responsibilities that may arise during the exercise.
He added that the appointment takes immediate effect and will remain valid throughout the duration of the 2026 Hajj operations.
In his remarks, Jebe expressed appreciation to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat and the commissioner for entrusting the committee with the responsibility.
He assured that members would justify the confidence reposed in them and pledged full commitment to delivering a successful Hajj exercise, while also appealing for continued support from the ministry.
Jebe subsequently announced the composition of various sub-committees and their chairpersons, including Musliudeen Maiyegun (Accommodation), Ajisegiri Ismail Ajibade (Welfare), Waheed Lolade Shonibare (Manifest, Visa and Media), Alhaji Shakiru Gafar (Madinah/Muna and Arafat), Prof. Kabir Paramole (Dawah/Enlightenment), Alhaji Mojeed Sanni (Transport), and Alhaji Yusuf Ara (Luggage and Weighing).
