The Lagos State Government has established an ad-hoc committee to oversee the 2026 Hajj exercise in Saudi Arabia. This was announced in a statement by Taofeek Lawal, Director of Public Affairs at the Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board (LSMPWB). The committee, chaired by Dr. Ahmad Abdullahi Jebe, Special Adviser to the Governor on Islamic Matters, was inaugurated by Commissioner for Home Affairs Olanrewaju Ibrahim Layode at the Secretariat in Alausa, Ikeja, on Wednesday.
Committee Mandate and Expectations
Addressing committee members, Layode stated that their appointment reflected their competence, dedication, and the need for successful planning and execution of the 2026 Hajj activities. He urged them to act with diligence, integrity, and commitment, aligning with LSMPWB objectives. The commissioner outlined the committee's terms of reference, which include supporting logistics coordination, pilgrims' welfare, accommodation, medical arrangements, and other assigned tasks. He emphasized that the appointment is effective immediately and will last throughout the 2026 Hajj period.
Chairman's Response
On behalf of the members, Dr. Ahmad Jebe expressed gratitude to Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, Deputy Governor Dr. Kadiri Obafemi Hamzat, and the Commissioner for Home Affairs for the opportunity to serve. He assured that the committee would not betray the trust placed in them and pledged unwavering commitment to a successful exercise. He appealed for necessary support from the commissioner to ensure smooth operations.
Sub-Committees Announced
Dr. Jebe announced the formation of sub-committees and their chairmen: Accommodation (Musliudeen Maiyegun); Welfare (Ajisegiri Ismail Ajibade); Manifest, Visa and Media (Waheed Lolade Shonibare); Madinah/Muna and Arafat (Shakiru Ayinde Gafar); Dawah/Enlightenment (Prof. Kabir Paramole); Transport (Alhaji Mojeed Sanni); and Luggage and Weighing (Alhaji Yusuf Ara).
Flight Schedule and Luggage Update
Commissioner Layode announced that airlifting of 1,600 intending pilgrims from Lagos will begin on Thursday, May 7, with the first flight carrying 345 pilgrims. Subsequent flights are scheduled for Friday, May 8 (second), Sunday, May 10 (third), Tuesday, May 12 (fourth), and the final flight on Wednesday, May 13. This schedule aligns with the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) timetable. Layode also informed that Flynas, the airline appointed by NAHCON, has increased the main luggage allowance from 32kg to 46kg per pilgrim, comprising two 23kg bags, while hand luggage remains 8kg.
