Aviation Stakeholders Urge Government Action for 2026 Hajj

Aviation stakeholders, led by Bukalti Gamawa, have called on the Nigerian government for urgent intervention regarding the rising costs of aviation fuel, which pose a serious threat to the planned airlift of Nigerian pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj. The price of jet A1 fuel has increased by 300%, forcing airlines to consider cutting operations or potentially suspending services.

Stakeholders warn that without immediate government action, including price regulation and special fuel arrangements, the 2026 Hajj could face record-high fares and operational disruptions. Currently, jet A1 fuel is sold at approximately 3,000 naira per liter in Nigeria, compared to around 0.68 naira per liter in Saudi Arabia.

This disparity creates a financial strain on airlines, which may struggle to break even or incur losses. Gamawa emphasized that the removal of Hajj subsidies by the government necessitates urgent policy actions to stabilize fuel prices and support airlines in their operations.