A faith-based civil society organisation, the Independent Hajj Reporters, has called on the federal and state governments to introduce urgent support measures for airlines involved in the 2026 Hajj operations, citing rising aviation fuel costs.

In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Ibrahim Muhammad, the group warned that the sharp increase in Jet A1 fuel prices could disrupt the airlift of Nigerian pilgrims if not urgently addressed.

The organisation said aviation stakeholders have already raised concerns that airlines may struggle to operate profitably due to escalating fuel costs.

It noted that many carriers assigned to Hajj operations rely on leased aircraft, adding that the recent spike in fuel prices has significantly reduced or wiped out expected profit margins.

Muhammad said that although the government no longer provides direct subsidies for Hajj, the current situation requires targeted intervention to avoid disruptions or excessive fare increases.

He pointed to examples from countries such as Indonesia and Pakistan, where governments reportedly stepped in to offset increased airfare costs for pilgrims due to global fuel price hikes.

The group warned that passing the cost burden to pilgrims could make Hajj fares unaffordable for many intending participants.

According to the statement, Jet A1 prices have risen from about ₦1,000 per litre at the time of contract signing to nearly ₦3,000 in some departure locations.

Muhammad estimated that this surge could add over ₦100 million in additional fuel costs per flight, depending on aircraft capacity and route.

He also raised concerns about return journeys, noting that aviation fuel prices in Saudi Arabia are also significantly higher, creating a dual financial burden for operators.

The group called for coordinated action among government agencies, airlines, regulators, and fuel suppliers to ensure smooth and affordable Hajj operations in 2026.