By Jabiru Hassan
The has called on the Federal Government and state governments to introduce urgent support measures, including possible subsidy arrangements, for Hajj air carriers following the sharp rise in aviation fuel prices.
In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, , the civil society organisation warned that the soaring cost of Jet A1 fuel poses a serious threat to the successful airlift of Nigerian pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj.
The group aligned with concerns raised by aviation stakeholders, noting that the situation could disrupt operations if immediate intervention is not implemented.
“Available industry data shows that the rising cost of aviation fuel has created a major financial strain on airlines engaged for the 2026 Hajj. Without timely intervention, the operation could face severe disruptions,” Muhammed said.
He referenced concerns earlier raised by stakeholders under the aegis of Concerned Aviation Stakeholders, led by , who warned that airlines may be forced to operate at a loss due to the spike in fuel prices.
According to him, many airlines would rely on leased aircraft, and with the increase in fuel prices on both outbound and return journeys, much of their projected profit margins had been wiped out, leaving some operators at break-even point or losses.
Independent Hajj Reporters noted that while the Federal Government no longer provides direct subsidies for Hajj operations, the current situation requires urgent policy intervention to protect the exercise.
The group pointed out that governments in and recently agreed to absorb airfare increases for their 2026 Hajj pilgrims following the rise in aviation fuel costs.
It said the alternative option of increasing Hajj fares was not practical with only a few days left before the commencement of airlift operations.
Muhammed urged the government to consider targeted interventions such as fuel pricing support, improved foreign exchange access, and strategic fuel supply arrangements for Hajj flights to prevent either airline withdrawal or excessive financial burden on pilgrims.
He revealed that when contracts were initially signed, Jet A1 sold for about ₦1,000 per litre locally, but prices have now risen to nearly ₦3,000 per litre across major departure centres.
According to him, a single flight consuming about 70,000 litres of fuel could now attract an additional cost exceeding ₦100 million, depending on location.
He also noted that aviation fuel prices in Saudi Arabia have more than doubled, creating extra pressure for return flights paid for in dollars.
The organisation called for coordinated action among government agencies, regulators, airlines and fuel suppliers to ensure a smooth and successful 2026 Hajj operation.
