The first batch of Muslim pilgrims from Ogun State has successfully arrived in Saudi Arabia for the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage, marking a significant moment for both the state’s religious and aviation sectors.
The group, consisting of 345 pilgrims—151 men and 194 women—departed late Sunday night from the newly built Gateway International Airport and landed at King Abdulaziz International Airport at approximately 4:15 a.m. Nigerian time.
This inaugural international flight from the airport not only signals the beginning of Ogun State’s 2026 Hajj operations but also highlights the facility’s growing role in regional and international travel. The airport itself was officially commissioned on April 4, 2026, by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during a visit to the state.
Upon arrival in Saudi Arabia, the pilgrims were received by Hajj officials and airport authorities before undergoing immigration and security checks. They were subsequently transported to their hotel accommodations in Medina, where they are expected to rest ahead of the religious rites.
Speaking prior to departure, Governor Dapo Abiodun described the journey as a landmark achievement, noting that it represents the first 4,600-kilometre nonstop international flight originating from Iperu.
“What we celebrate today goes far beyond the arrival and departure of an international aircraft; it is a testament to focus, determination, resilience, commitment, sacrifice, and teamwork,” the governor said.
He added that the development opens up new opportunities for global connectivity and positions Ogun State as a strategic hub for commerce and international engagement.
Abiodun also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for supporting the completion of the airport project and commended the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria for designating the facility as one of the official departure centres for Hajj operations.
He urged the pilgrims to represent Nigeria positively by respecting the laws of Saudi Arabia and maintaining discipline throughout their stay.
Representing the Chairman of the National Hajj Commission, Ismail Yusuf, Commissioner for Hajj Operations Olanrewaju Elegushi noted that the new departure point would significantly reduce travel stress and improve logistics for pilgrims.
He highlighted that Gateway International Airport is the first state-owned airport in South-West Nigeria approved for Hajj operations without restrictions, attributing the achievement to its modern infrastructure.
The Amir Hajj for 2026, Shamsideen Apelogun, described the pilgrimage as a rare spiritual opportunity and encouraged participants to uphold the values and reputation of both Ogun State and Nigeria.
Traditional and religious leaders also praised the development. The Saka Matemilola and the Chief Imam of Gbagura, Kamaldeen Balogun, noted that the airport has eliminated the need for pilgrims to travel to Lagos for international departures.
Speaking on behalf of the pilgrims, Muritala Ejalonibu described the journey as historic, while several travellers expressed excitement at being among the first to depart from the new facility.
