NAHCON Chairman Clarifies Ogun Airport Hajj Operations

Ismail Yusuf, the Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), addressed media reports suggesting that airlines had rejected Gateway International Airport in Ogun State for Hajj operations. He described these claims as false and misleading.

Yusuf explained that the temporary relocation of pilgrims from Ogun State to Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos was a logistical adjustment related to flight scheduling and operational timelines for the 2026 Hajj airlift exercise. He stated that there was no declaration from airlines regarding the airport being unsuitable or unsafe for operations, contrary to some media insinuations.

Yusuf urged the public and stakeholders to disregard speculative narratives that could create panic and discredit the airport project. He reassured that necessary arrangements are in place to ensure the safe and timely transport of pilgrims to Saudi Arabia, commending the Ogun State government for its cooperation throughout the process.