The first batch of Muslim pilgrims from Ogun State has arrived safely in Saudi Arabia for the 2026 Hajj, marking a significant milestone for both the state’s pilgrimage exercise and its newly inaugurated airport.
The 345 pilgrims, made up of 151 men and 194 women, departed from the Gateway International Airport in Iperu at 11:00 p.m. on Sunday and landed at King Abdulaziz International Airport in the early hours of Monday, around 4:15 a.m. Nigerian time. They were accompanied by officials of the Ogun State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board.
On arrival, Saudi Hajj authorities received the pilgrims, who completed immigration and security checks smoothly before being transported to their hotel accommodations in Medina to rest ahead of the Hajj rites.
The flight also marked a historic moment as the first international departure from Gateway International Airport since its commissioning on April 4, 2026, by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Governor Dapo Abiodun described the development as a major breakthrough, noting that the 4,600-kilometre nonstop journey from Iperu underscores the state’s growing infrastructure capacity and global connectivity.
According to him, the successful takeoff represents more than just an international flight, but a reflection of dedication, planning, and collective effort aimed at positioning Ogun State as a hub for commerce and international engagement.
The governor also appreciated President Tinubu for supporting the project’s completion and commended the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) for approving the airport as a Hajj departure centre. He urged the pilgrims to uphold discipline and represent Nigeria positively while in Saudi Arabia.
Representing NAHCON Chairman, Ismail Yusuf, the Commissioner for Hajj Operations, Alhaji Olanrewaju Elegushi, noted that the new departure point would ease travel logistics and reduce stress for pilgrims. He added that the airport is the first state-owned facility in South-West Nigeria approved for Hajj operations without restrictions due to its modern facilities.
Amir Hajj 2026, Alhaji Shamsideen Apelogun, described the pilgrimage as a rare spiritual opportunity and encouraged pilgrims to maintain good conduct throughout their stay.
Traditional and religious leaders, including the Olowu of Owu, Oba Saka Matemilola, and the Chief Imam of Gbagura, Prof. Kamaldeen Balogun, praised the airport project, saying it has removed the burden of traveling to Lagos for international flights.
Speaking on behalf of the pilgrims, Dr. Muritala Ejalonibu described the journey as historic, while many travellers expressed excitement at being part of the airport’s first international flight.
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