The first batch of Muslim pilgrims from Ogun State has safely arrived in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the 2026 Hajj exercise, marking a historic milestone for the state’s aviation and pilgrimage operations.
The pilgrims landed at King Abdulaziz International Airport at about 4:15 a.m. Nigerian time after departing from Gateway International Airport at 11:00 p.m. on Sunday.
The contingent consisted of 345 pilgrims, made up of 151 men and 194 women, alongside officials of the Ogun State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board. On arrival, they were received by Saudi Hajj officials and airport authorities before completing immigration and security checks smoothly.
They were later transported by bus to their accommodation in Medina, where they are expected to rest before the continuation of Hajj rites.
The departure also marked the first international flight operation from Gateway International Airport, which was recently commissioned on April 4, 2026, by President Bola Tinubu. The flight covered about 4,600 kilometres nonstop from Iperu.
Governor Dapo Abiodun described the milestone as a major achievement in infrastructure development, saying it reflects progress in connectivity and economic expansion for Ogun State. He also thanked the federal government and Hajj authorities for supporting the use of the airport for pilgrimage operations.
Officials from the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) noted that the new airport will significantly reduce travel stress for pilgrims by eliminating the need to travel through Lagos.
Religious and traditional leaders also praised the development, while some pilgrims described the experience as historic and emotionally fulfilling, being part of the first group to depart from the new facility.
