By Jabiru Hassan
The Independent Hajj Reporters has commended the successful completion of the 2026 outbound airlift of Nigerian pilgrims within the scheduled timeline.In its second assessment report, the group described the exercise as a major operational achievement despite some logistical challenges recorded during the process.
The report, signed by the Chairman of the IHR Media Monitoring Team, Nasiru Lawal, noted that the establishment of additional embarkation centres in Zamfara State and Ogun State reduced the stress of interstate travel for intending pilgrims.
However, the organisation said the new centres also increased operational demands on airlines and the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria by requiring additional personnel and logistics support. The report gave a positive assessment of accommodation arrangements for Nigerian pilgrims in Madinah, particularly the continued use of Markaziya locations near Masjid Al-Nabawi.
IHR also praised improvements in feeding arrangements but advised further enhancements in menu variety and accommodation allocation processes to reduce waiting times for arriving pilgrims. The group further commended NAHCON for introducing the Hajj Companion App, describing it as an important step toward digitalising Hajj operations and pilgrims’ services.
It recommended broader collaboration with state pilgrims welfare boards and private tour operators to improve the application’s functionality and inclusiveness.The organisation urged all Hajj stakeholders to prioritise efficient service delivery and cooperation as pilgrims begin the Masha’ir phase of the pilgrimage.
