The Lagos State Government has established an ad-hoc committee to coordinate the 2026 Hajj exercise to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The committee, chaired by Dr. Ahmad Abdullahi Jebe, Special Adviser to the Governor on Islamic Matters, was inaugurated by the Commissioner for Home Affairs, Hon. Olanrewaju Ibrahim Layode, at the Secretariat in Alausa, Ikeja.
Layode stated that the committee members were selected based on their expertise and commitment to ensure efficient planning and execution of the Hajj operations. He charged them to carry out their duties with professionalism, integrity, and dedication in line with the objectives of the Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board.
He explained that the committee’s responsibilities will cover logistics, accommodation, welfare, medical services, and other key aspects of the pilgrimage.
In his response, Dr. Jebe thanked Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, Deputy Governor Kadiri Obafemi Hamzat, and the commissioner for the trust placed in them, assuring that the team will work diligently to deliver a successful Hajj exercise.
Various sub-committees were also announced to handle critical areas such as accommodation, transport, welfare, enlightenment, visa processing, and luggage coordination.
Meanwhile, the commissioner disclosed that the airlift of about 1,600 intending pilgrims will begin on May 7, 2026, starting with 345 pilgrims. Subsequent flights will run through May 13 in line with the timetable issued by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria.
He further noted that Flynas Airline, the designated carrier, has increased the baggage allowance, allowing each pilgrim two 23kg checked bags, while hand luggage remains 8kg.
The move underscores the state government’s commitment to ensuring a smooth and well-organised pilgrimage for its residents.
