Operators of airlines charged with the airlift of pilgrims to and from the 2024 Hajj pilgrimage are threatening to withdraw their services, potentially leaving the pilgrims stranded in Saudi Arabia. The airlines, Max Air, Air Peace and FlyNas, who were contracted by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), say payments have not been made to them as outlined in their contractual agreements.

Sources privy to the agreement say the NAHCON agreed to pay 50 percent of the airfare before the commencement of the first leg of airlift to Saudi Arabia and an additional 35 percent immediately after the commencement of airlift but one of the operators claim the initial 50 percent was not paid till after the completion of the first set of airlifts in violation of the agreement.

“We completed the airlift before receiving the initial 50 per cent; and now, we are beginning the return leg while still awaiting payment, with NAHCON citing delay in processing the funds through the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN),” the operator said.

Another operator said the costs incurred by the airlines in fees and licenses makes the current situation untenable as a long-term strategy and insisted they have only endured this long as a sense of civic duty to society. “If the situation persists, airlines may have no choice but to consider withdrawing their services. The initial agreement required 50 percent payment upfront to facilitate proper preparation, but now, we find ourselves in this situation,” the operator explained.

Responding, an official of NAHCON admitted failure on the part of the commission to meet its obligations but promised efforts are being made to remedy the situation. “The funds are being processed through the CBN and steps are being taken to expedite the payment. We anticipate that the matter would be resolved soon,” the official said.

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