By: Lauretta Fagbohun, Abeokuta.

The first batch of Muslim pilgrims from Ogun State has successfully arrived in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the 2026 Hajj, marking a major milestone in the state’s aviation and pilgrimage history.

The 345 pilgrims comprising 151 men and 194 women departed Gateway International Airport in Iperu at 11:00 p.m. on Sunday and landed at King Abdulaziz International Airport 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 group, after which they completed immigration and security formalities before being transported to their hotel in Medina to rest ahead of the Hajj rites.

The flight not only flagged off Ogun State’s 2026 Hajj operations but also marked the first international departure from Gateway International Airport, recently commissioned on April 4, 2026, by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Governor Dapo Abiodun described the journey as a landmark achievement, noting that it represents the first nonstop international flight from Iperu, covering about 4,600 kilometres. He said the development underscores his administration’s dedication to infrastructure growth and economic expansion.

According to the governor, the airport project goes beyond transportation, positioning Ogun State as a key hub for commerce and global connectivity. He also appreciated President Tinubu for his support in completing the project and commended the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) for approving the airport as a Hajj departure centre.

Abiodun urged the pilgrims to be good ambassadors of Nigeria by adhering strictly to Saudi laws and upholding discipline throughout their pilgrimage.

Representing the NAHCON Chairman, Commissioner for Hajj Operations, Alhaji Olanrewaju Elegushi, said the new departure point would ease travel logistics and reduce stress for pilgrims. He added that Gateway International Airport stands out as the first state-owned airport 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 the pilgrims to reflect positively on Ogun State and Nigeria.

Traditional and religious leaders, including the Olowu of Owu, Oba Saka Matemilola, and the Chief Imam of Gbagura, Prof. Kamaldeen Balogun, praised the project, noting that it has eliminated the need for pilgrims to travel to Lagos for international flights.
Speaking on behalf of the pilgrims, Dr. Muritala Ejalonibu described the experience as historic, while many of the travellers expressed excitement at being part of the airport’s first international flight.