The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially designated four airlines to facilitate the transportation of pilgrims for the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

This announcement was made by Professor Abdullahi Usman, the Executive Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), through a statement issued by Mrs. Fatima Usara, the commission’s Assistant Director of Information and Publication.

The selected airlines—Air Peace Ltd., Fly-Nas, Max Air, and UMZA Aviation Services Ltd.—were chosen from a pool of 11 applicants. The selection process was rigorous, involving a comprehensive screening conducted by a 32-member Aviation Screening Committee, which was inaugurated on November 26, 2024.

This committee included representatives from various organizations, such as State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards and several aviation authorities, ensuring a thorough evaluation of each airline's capabilities.

In addition to the main air carriers, NAHCON has also approved three excess cargo carriers for the Hajj operations: Aglow Aviation Support Services Ltd., Cargozeal Technology Ltd., and Qualla Investment Ltd. Professor Usman emphasized the importance of these airlines fulfilling their commitments as outlined during the screening process.

Furthermore, he signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to formalize arrangements for the upcoming pilgrimage. This event took place in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, with representatives from both nations present to mark this significant collaboration.