The first batch of Muslim pilgrims from Ogun State has safely arrived in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the 2026 Hajj, marking a defining moment not only in the spiritual journey of the faithful but also in the state’s aviation history.
The 345 pilgrims—comprising 151 पुरुष and 194 women—departed the newly commissioned Gateway International Airport in Iperu at exactly 11:00 p.m. on Sunday, arriving at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah at about 4:15 a.m. Nigerian time. The successful رحلة represents the airport’s inaugural international flight and the official commencement of Ogun State’s Hajj operations for the year.
Upon arrival, the pilgrims were warmly received by Saudi Hajj authorities and airport officials. Following smooth immigration and security checks, they were transported in buses to their hotel accommodations in Medina, where they will rest before proceeding with the sacred rites of the Hajj.
The historic departure comes barely a month after the airport was commissioned on April 4, 2026, by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during an official visit to Ogun State. Designed to boost economic growth and ease travel logistics, the facility has now proven its readiness for global operations.
Governor Dapo Abiodun, who witnessed the departure, described the moment as a major milestone for the state. He highlighted that the رحلة was the first 4,600-kilometre nonstop international flight from Iperu, underscoring his administration’s commitment to infrastructure development and global connectivity.
“What we celebrate today transcends the movement of an aircraft,” the governor said. “It symbolizes vision, resilience, teamwork, and a bold step toward positioning Ogun State as a hub for commerce and international engagement.”
He also expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for his support in ensuring the timely completion of the project and commended the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) for approving the airport as a Hajj departure centre.
In his remarks, NAHCON Chairman, Ismail Yusuf, represented by Commissioner for Hajj Operations, Alhaji Olanrewaju Elegushi, noted that the new gateway would significantly reduce travel stress for pilgrims, who previously had to depart from Lagos.
He described Gateway International Airport as the first state-owned facility in South-West Nigeria cleared for Hajj operations without restrictions, attributing this to its modern infrastructure and adherence to international aviation standards.
The Amir Hajj 2026, Alhaji Shamsideen Apelogun, reminded the pilgrims of the spiritual importance of the journey, urging them to uphold discipline, humility, and the good image of Nigeria throughout their stay in Saudi Arabia.
Traditional and religious leaders also lauded the development. The Olowu of Owu, Oba Saka Matemilola, described the airport as a long-awaited relief for residents, while the Chief Imam of Gbagura, Prof. Emeritus Kamaldeen Balogun, emphasized its role in eliminating the burdens associated with traveling to Lagos for international flights.
For the pilgrims, the experience was both historic and emotional. Speaking on their behalf, Dr. Muritala Ejalonibu expressed gratitude to the state government, describing the journey as seamless and memorable. Many of the travelers shared excitement at being pioneers of the airport’s first international departure.
As Ogun State’s pilgrims settle into Medina ahead of the Hajj rites, the successful operation of Gateway International Airport stands as a symbol of progress—bridging faith, infrastructure, and opportunity in one historic flight to the Holy Land.
