The Independent Hajj Reporters (IHR) has appealed to the Federal Government and state governments to urgently introduce support measures, including possible subsidy arrangements, for airlines engaged in transporting Nigerian pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj.

In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Ibrahim Muhammed, the civil society organisation expressed concern over the sharp increase in the price of Jet A1 aviation fuel, warning that it could disrupt the smooth airlift of pilgrims if not addressed promptly.

According to Muhammed, rising fuel costs have placed significant financial pressure on airlines contracted for the pilgrimage, many of which depend on leased aircraft for the operation. He noted that the spike in fuel prices has eroded projected profit margins, leaving some operators at risk of breaking even or even incurring losses.

He aligned with earlier concerns raised by aviation stakeholders under the platform of Concerned Aviation Stakeholders, led by Bukalti Gamawa, who cautioned that airlines might struggle to sustain operations under the current pricing realities.

“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 stated.

The organisation acknowledged that while the Federal Government no longer provides direct subsidies for Hajj operations, the current situation requires urgent policy intervention to ensure the success of the pilgrimage.

It cited examples from countries like Indonesia and Pakistan, where governments have reportedly stepped in to offset the increased cost of airfare for their pilgrims following the surge in aviation fuel prices.

The group explained that increasing Hajj fares at this stage may not be a viable option, especially with the airlift of pilgrims expected to commence soon. It warned that passing the additional costs to pilgrims could lead to a sharp rise in fares, placing further financial burden on intending pilgrims.

“When contracts were signed, Jet A1 sold at about ₦1,000 per litre locally. Today, prices have climbed to nearly ₦3,000 per litre across major departure centres. This represents a significant deviation from initial projections,” Muhammed said.

He further revealed that a single Hajj flight, which consumes approximately 70,000 litres of fuel, could now attract an additional cost exceeding ₦100 million, depending on the location.

Muhammed also pointed to the rising cost of aviation fuel in Saudi Arabia, noting that airlines face a “double financial burden” as they must also pay for return flights in foreign currency at significantly higher rates.

“Even if domestic interventions address outbound flights, airlines still face high fuel costs in dollars for return operations. This creates a double financial burden that must be addressed holistically,” he added.

The Independent Hajj Reporters called for coordinated efforts among relevant government agencies, aviation regulators, airlines, and fuel suppliers to ensure a seamless and successful 2026 Hajj exercise.

The group emphasised that timely intervention would not only safeguard airline operations but also protect pilgrims from sudden and excessive fare increases.

The Senate on Thursday took a major step toward improving the funding of the Nigeria Police Force by passing a bill seeking to reform the Police Trust Fund to second reading.

The proposed legislation, sponsored by Opeyemi Bamidele, aims to repeal and re-enact the existing law to introduce multiple and more sustainable funding sources for the police.

Leading the debate, Bamidele explained that the bill proposes a diversified funding structure, including one percent of total revenue from the Federation Account, development levies under tax laws, grants from federal, state, and local governments, as well as donations from international partners and contributions from the private sector.

He noted that the reform had become necessary due to persistent funding challenges facing the police, which have affected their ability to effectively tackle insecurity across the country. According to him, despite significant annual allocations, police formations often operate with inadequate resources, poor infrastructure, and limited operational tools.

The senator added that the new framework would enhance operational capacity, improve technological capabilities, and support the renovation of police facilities. It would also strengthen training programmes and ensure better welfare for officers.

Bamidele further stated that the bill proposes a structured governance system for the trust fund, including a governing board made up of key stakeholders such as representatives from relevant ministries, the police hierarchy, and the private sector.

Supporting the bill, Abba Moro emphasized the urgent need to address inadequate police funding, noting that many formations lack modern equipment needed to combat crimes such as kidnapping.

Also backing the proposal, Jubril Barau described the bill as crucial to national security, stressing that the police serve the entire federation and require adequate support.

However, concerns were raised by Ibrahim Dankwambo, who warned that the proposed one percent deduction from the Federation Account could face legal challenges, as similar arrangements had previously been contested by state governments. He also questioned how the funding model would align with ongoing discussions on state policing.

In his contribution, Abdulfatai Buhari argued that beyond funding, the police also need better equipment and operational support. He pointed out that Nigeria has about 300,000 police officers serving a population of over 200 million, which falls below global standards.

After extensive deliberation, the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, put the bill to a voice vote, with the majority of lawmakers supporting it.

Akpabio announced that the bill would proceed to a public hearing to address concerns such as accountability of past funds, alternative funding options, and its compatibility with potential state police structures.

The bill has now been referred to the Senate Committee on Police Affairs, chaired by Ahmed Mallam-Madori, which has been given two weeks to report back to the Senate.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially sworn in Dr. Muttaqha Rabe Darma as Nigeria’s new Minister of Housing and Urban Development.

The swearing-in ceremony took place on Friday at the State House in Abuja, shortly after Dr. Darma was cleared by the Senate. He replaces Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, who recently stepped down from the position.

During the brief ceremony, President Tinubu congratulated the new minister and acknowledged the significance of his appointment at a critical period in Nigeria’s development. He noted that the country requires capable and experienced individuals to drive progress in key sectors such as housing.

“You have a very rich and interesting background. As a leader, we need competent hands like yours,” the President said. He added that Dr. Darma’s past contributions in various roles demonstrate his capacity to deliver results, describing him as “a fitting peg in the right position.”

Tinubu also urged the new minister to remain committed and be prepared to serve in any capacity required for national development.

Dr. Darma brings a wealth of experience in engineering, administration, and public service. He holds a Doctor of Business Administration degree from the University of Liverpool and a PhD in Industrial Engineering from Atlantic International University in the United States. He also earned a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Bayero University, Kano, and a Master’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering from the University of Benin.

He is a member of professional bodies, including the Nigerian Society of Engineers and the Nigerian Institute of Management.

In his public service career, Dr. Darma previously served as Executive Secretary of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) between 2008 and 2012. He has also held several key positions in Katsina State, including Commissioner for Works, Housing and Transport, as well as Commissioner for Rural and Social Development.

Beyond government service, he has contributed to academia as a lecturer at Bayero University, Kano, and has published widely on governance and development issues.

Before his latest appointment, Dr. Darma served as President of the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Human Development Centre in Katsina State.

His appointment is expected to bring renewed focus to Nigeria’s housing sector, which remains a key area in the country’s broader development agenda.