Renowned Islamic scholar and former Chairman of the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation, Dr. Abdulhakeem AbdulLateef, known as 'Hon. Iyepe', has officially launched the 2026 Hajj operations for 340 pilgrims under his coordination. The group includes 90 participants from the Diaspora, representing a sophisticated logistical and spiritual operation that AbdulLateef describes as a labour of worship and service to humanity.
Intensive Education Programme
In a departure from conventional travel arrangements, the pilgrims underwent a rigorous five-month intensive education programme. The curriculum covered Islamic jurisprudence, spiritual purification, and behavioural discipline to ensure participants are grounded in the fundamentals of Hajj rites. AbdulLateef announced that not a single pilgrim failed the final examination, with all scoring above 50 percent. This success reflects their commitment and the seriousness of ensuring no one is confused during the rites in Makkah and Madinah.
Airlift Operations
Airlift operations began on Monday, May 11, 2026, utilizing a multi-batch system to ensure orderliness. The staggered departure involves major international carriers: Qatar Airways handles the 1st, 3rd, 4th, and 5th batches; Egypt Air transports the 2nd batch; and Emirates Airline completes the 6th batch. The 90 diaspora pilgrims are scheduled to join the main body in Madinah, creating a seamless transnational integration.
Quota Restrictions and Partnerships
Addressing the 2026 quota restrictions, which limited private companies to 69 slots, AbdulLateef explained that his organization partnered with other licensed tour operators. This collaboration was strategic to ensure that no pilgrim under his care was left behind despite regulatory limits imposed by NAHCON and Saudi authorities. He expressed full support for Saudi Arabia's 'No Hajj Permit, No Hajj' policy, emphasizing its importance in preventing overcrowding. All 340 pilgrims have been registered on the Nusuk application, with designated time slots secured for sacred rites.
Communication and Support
Director of Dawah and Enlightenment, Prof. Tajudeen Yusuf, emphasized the critical role of communication between pilgrims and tour operators to ensure a successful Hajj. When pilgrims are not well-informed, things can go wrong. He stated that they want to ensure pilgrims do not lose the spiritual, moral, and physical significance of the journey, so they can gain maximum benefit. An adequate structure has been established to support them during and after the Hajj rites. To guarantee high standards, the Managing Director is traveling with the first batch of pilgrims, and agents are fully on the ground to guide and direct. While Saudi authorities have introduced a few changes, the organization is leveraging years of experience to overcome any challenges.
Pilgrims' Testimonials
A returning pilgrim, Rasheedat Abdulkareem, praised the level of preparation provided by the tour operator. From the Dawah and enlightenment sessions held in Nigeria, this experience is already much better than her first trip. Even first-timers now know the rituals and what to do at every location. If all pilgrims were this well-enlightened, the Hajj exercise would be truly seamless. Another pilgrim, Nawal Adebayo, who learned of the operator through his father, expressed high confidence in the process. He is very happy to be going, noting that they are excellent at communicating and consistent in sharing necessary information. The enlightenment sessions were thorough, including a 100-question exam which he passed. He feels fully prepared and hopes for a smooth Hajj exercise.
