* 13,000 pilgrims to fly chartered, scheduled flights
As Hajj 2025 approaches, the Association for Hajj and Umrah Operators of Nigeria (AHOUN) is leaving no stone unturned in its preparations to facilitate the smooth travel and pilgrimage experience for Nigerian Muslims.
In an exclusive interview with Muslim News on Wednesday, 23rd April, Alhaji Abdul Lateef Yusuf Ekundayo, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Al-Firdaos Hajj and Umrah Services Limited and President of AHOUN, shared vital insights into the association’s readiness for the coming pilgrimage season.
The development was coming barely 24 hours after the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria fixed 9th May 2025 as the date for the inaugural flight of Nigerian pilgrims to Saudi Arabia.
The Hajj Commission together with the Executive Secretaries of State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards under the Forum of States also announced the breakdown of airline allocations to four airlines expected to airlift 43,000 Nigerian pilgrims.
Speaking on the arrangements of the private operators for the spiritual journey, Alhaji Ekundayo confirmed the figure to be 13,000 altogether, who will be airlifted through scheduled and chartered flights, adding that, “As of today, many operators have secured their visas, and we’re prepared for the flight arrangements.”
Alhaji Ekundayo clarified that while NAHCON had announced 43,000 slots for state pilgrims, private operators were allocated 20,000 slots directly by Saudi Arabia. However, high costs have meant that only 13,000 slots have been fully registered by private operators.
“20,000 slots were given to private operators directly from Saudi Arabia, but due to the high cost, many could not register. So, all private operators could get nationwide is 13,000 pilgrims,” he explained.
Despite this, the CEO of Al-Firdaos Hajj and Umrah Services Limited remains optimistic, “Aside from that, we’ve kept the ball rolling regarding all necessary preparations, and we’re ready for Hajj this year, In sha Allah.”
No faction within AHOUN, he insists
Addressing concerns about any potential faction within AHOUN, Alhaji Ekundayo dismissed rumors of division, emphasising that all operators are united under the association.
“As far as I know, there’s no faction in AHOUN, just some disgruntled elements trying to cause trouble. The 13,000 slots are for everybody,” he affirmed.
Approval of local carrier, Umza
Flight arrangements are a significant aspect of the preparations, and Ekundayo emphasised AHOUN’s commitment to supporting local airlines. While many operators will rely on international carriers like Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Turkish Airlines, AHOUN has chosen to partner with Umza Airline, a local carrier approved by NAHCON for state pilgrims.
“AHOUN as a body is engaging a local flight known as Umza Airline. It’s one of the four airlines screened and approved by NAHCON for state pilgrims,” Ekundayo explained.
He also highlighted the economic benefits of supporting local airlines, noting that funds spent on foreign carriers often leave the country. “We chose Umza Airline to promote the economy of our country,” he added.
Reasons behind avoiding foreign airlines
Discussing the reasons behind avoiding foreign airlines, Ekundayo pointed out the challenges faced by pilgrims traveling on international flights.
“A journey of about 5-6 hours will take almost a whole day with foreign airlines. Our pilgrims go through a lot—transiting in Doha or Dubai and spending hours without hotels. Many of those pilgrims are elderly people, and by the time they get to Saudi Arabia, they’re already exhausted. This affects the essence of their pilgrimage,” he explained, emphasising the importance of comfort and efficiency for pilgrims’ spiritual well-being.
AHOUN’s commitment to a smooth and efficient operation is evident, as it works to minimize any distractions during the Hajj season.
“We are collaborating with NAHCON for the success of hajj operations, In sha Allah. Even if we make an official statement, it will be after hajj, by the grace of God,” Alhaji Ekundayo stated, assuring that AHOUN’s focus remains on delivering a successful pilgrimage experience.
Plan for Al-Firdaos Hajj and Umrah pilgrims
For Al-Firdaos Hajj and Umrah Services Limited, preparations are also underway, with seminars scheduled for pilgrims to help them understand the rites of Hajj.
“For someone paying 8 to 10 million naira to perform hajj, it’s better they know exactly what they are going there for. It’s not tourism, it’s worship,” Ekundayo emphasised. The agency’s seminar will run from 3rd to 25th May, with flights departing on 27th.
BoT chair confirms AHOUN’s preparation
Meanwhile, Alhaji AbdulFatah AbdulMajeed, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of AHOUN and CEO of Qibla International Services, shared his outlook for Hajj 2025, noting that while there are 13,000 slots available for private operators, he anticipates that 80-90% of the slots will be utilized.
“The majority of us are going by scheduled flights,” he added.
He confirmed that operators will begin flights by 20th May, with chartered flights likely to begin around 24th – and 25th May.
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