The Lagos State Government has announced plans to commence the airlift of its contingent for the 2026 Hajj exercise on May 7, marking the start of a coordinated pilgrimage operation to Saudi Arabia.
The disclosure was made by the Commissioner for Home Affairs, Olanrewaju Ibrahim Layode, in a statement released through the Director of Public Affairs, Taofeek Lawal. He also confirmed the inauguration of an ad-hoc committee tasked with managing logistics and welfare for the pilgrimage.
The committee is headed by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Islamic Matters, Ahmad Abdullahi Jebe, and was formally inaugurated at the state secretariat in Alausa, Ikeja.
According to Layode, approximately 1,600 intending pilgrims from Lagos will be transported in phases. The first batch of 345 pilgrims is scheduled to depart on the opening flight, with subsequent departures arranged over several days.
“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.
The commissioner further disclosed that Flynas, the airline designated for the operation by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, has approved an increase in baggage allowance. Each pilgrim will now be allowed two checked bags of 23kg each, bringing the total to 46kg, while hand luggage remains limited to 8kg.
Addressing members of the newly inaugurated committee, Layode said their selection was based on proven competence and dedication. He stressed the importance of ensuring smooth planning and execution across all aspects of the pilgrimage.
He urged them to carry out their duties with diligence, integrity, and a strong sense of responsibility, in line with the goals of the Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board.
The committee’s responsibilities include overseeing logistics, accommodation, healthcare services, transportation, and general welfare of pilgrims, as well as handling any additional issues that may arise during the exercise.
Layode added that the appointments take immediate effect and will remain valid throughout the duration of the 2026 Hajj operations.
In his remarks, Jebe expressed gratitude to Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Obafemi Hamzat, and the commissioner for the confidence placed in the committee.
He assured that members would rise to the task and deliver a successful pilgrimage exercise, while also calling for continued support from the ministry.
Jebe also unveiled the structure of the committee, announcing the heads of various sub-units. These include 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).
