By Ibrahim Muhammad

The Independent Hajj Reporters (IHR) monitoring team has commended the Bauchi State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board and stakeholders for what it described as a well-coordinated and seamless airlift of pilgrims from Bauchi zone for the 2026 Hajj.

In a statement, the team said it observed a high level of dedication and organisation from the Hajj camp to the airport throughout the exercise. It noted that officials-maintained order and efficiency, ensuring a smooth movement of pilgrims during departures.

The IHR particularly praised the Executive Secretary of the board, Imam AbdulRahaman, for his hands-on leadership, stating that he was consistently present with pilgrims and personally accompanied them to the point of boarding without missing any stage of the airlift. The NAHCON Zonal officials in Bauchi shows a remarkable commitment in coordination.

According to the team, the use of uniforms, identification tags and clearly defined roles by Bauchi officials enhanced coordination and made it easier for pilgrims to identify and seek assistance from relevant personnel.

Operational data from the airlift showed steady progress over several days. On May 6, Umza flight UY3507 departed Bauchi to Madinah with 481 Plateau pilgrims, bringing total airlifts to 6,493 across 15 flights.

On May 7, two flights — UY3509 and UY3511 — transported a combined 958 pilgrims, including contingents from Bauchi and Plateau states, raising the total to 10,576 pilgrims across 25 flights.

Subsequent operations recorded further progress, with flight UY3513 on May 8 airlifting 479 pilgrims, while flight UY3515 on May 9 conveyed 485 Bauchi pilgrims. By May 10, flight UY3517 departed with 476 pilgrims, including one from Jigawa State.

Cumulatively, a total of 16,932 pilgrims had been airlifted in 40 flights as of May 10, reflecting what the IHR described as a highly efficient and coordinated exercise.

Source: Independent Hajj Reporters