The Federal Government is reviewing Nigeria’s Hajj aviation strategy with a focus on securing a fairer and more equitable passenger-sharing arrangement between Nigerian and Saudi airlines operating Hajj flights.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, convened a high-level meeting in his office on Wednesday following a directive from Vice President Kashim Shettima.
The meeting brought together the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mahmud Adamu Kambari; Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf; Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs Olubunmi Kuku; and Hajj airline operators.
The discussions focused on recalibrating Nigeria’s approach to Hajj air operations, particularly the passenger-sharing formula with Saudi carriers, with the aim of improving the terms available to Nigerian pilgrims.
A joint technical team has subsequently been mandated to review the 1978 Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) and the 2015 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia.
The review is expected to provide a basis for a unified negotiating position as Nigeria engages the Saudi authorities on arrangements for Hajj air operations.
The move underscores the Federal Government’s efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s position in Hajj aviation and ensure that the interests and welfare of Nigerian pilgrims are adequately protected.
