The Lagos State Government has confirmed that the airlift of its pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj will commence on May 7. This announcement was made by the Commissioner for Home Affairs, Olanrewaju Ibrahim Layode, through a statement issued by the Director of Public Affairs, Taofeek Lawal. The commissioner also revealed the formation of an ad-hoc committee tasked with managing all aspects of the pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia.
The committee, led by Ahmad Abdullahi Jebe, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Islamic Matters, was officially inaugurated at the state secretariat in Alausa, Ikeja. Layode noted that about 1,600 intending pilgrims from Lagos will be transported in multiple phases, starting with an initial group of 345 on the first flight.
Flight Schedule and Baggage Allowance
The commissioner detailed the flight timeline: the second flight is set for Friday, May 8; the third on Sunday, May 10; the fourth on Tuesday, May 12; and the final flight on Wednesday, May 13. These dates adhere to the schedule provided by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON). Additionally, Layode announced that Flynas, the airline designated by NAHCON, has increased the baggage allowance. Each pilgrim can now check in two bags weighing 23kg each, bringing the total checked allowance to 46kg, while hand luggage remains limited to 8kg.
Committee Mandate and Composition
Addressing the committee members, Layode emphasized that their selection was based on competence and dedication. They are expected to ensure smooth planning and execution of all Hajj activities, covering logistics coordination, pilgrim welfare, accommodation, medical support, and other arising responsibilities. The appointments took immediate effect and will last throughout the 2026 Hajj operations.
Jebe expressed gratitude to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat, and the commissioner for the trust placed in the committee. He pledged full commitment to a successful Hajj exercise and appealed for continued ministry support. He also announced the sub-committees and their chairpersons: 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).