The first batch of Muslim pilgrims from Ogun State has arrived safely in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the 2026 Hajj, marking a historic milestone in the state's aviation and pilgrimage operations. The pilgrims landed at King Abdulaziz International Airport at approximately 4:15 a.m. Nigerian time after departing from Gateway International Airport at 11:00 p.m. on Sunday.
Pilgrim Details and Arrival
The contingent comprised 345 pilgrims, including 151 males and 194 females, along with officials from the Ogun State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board. Upon arrival, they were received by Saudi Hajj officials and airport authorities before undergoing immigration and security checks in an orderly manner. Subsequently, they were transported by bus to their hotel accommodations in Medina, where they are expected to rest ahead of the Hajj rites.
Historic Flight from Gateway International Airport
Their departure from Gateway International Airport not only flagged off the 2026 Hajj operations but also marked the airport's first international flight. The facility was commissioned on April 4, 2026, by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during an official visit to Ogun State. Speaking ahead of the inaugural flight, Governor Dapo Abiodun described the journey as the first 4,600-kilometre nonstop international flight from Iperu, noting that it underscores his administration's commitment to infrastructure development and economic expansion.
“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 new pathways for connectivity and positions Ogun State as a hub for commerce and global engagement.
Governor's Remarks and Appreciation
Abiodun also expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for his support in ensuring the timely completion of the airport and commended the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) for designating the facility as one of the centres for Hajj operations. He urged the pilgrims to be worthy ambassadors of Nigeria by obeying Saudi laws and conducting themselves with discipline and integrity throughout their stay.
NAHCON and Officials' Comments
In his remarks, NAHCON Chairman, Ismail Yusuf, represented by the Commissioner for Hajj Operations, Alhaji Olanrewaju Elegushi, said the new departure point would ease logistics by reducing travel time for pilgrims. He noted that Gateway International Airport is the first state-owned facility in South-West Nigeria cleared for Hajj operations without limitations, attributing the achievement to its modern infrastructure.
The Amir Hajj 2026, Alhaji Shamsideen Apelogun, described the pilgrimage as a spiritual privilege and urged pilgrims to uphold the image of Ogun State and Nigeria. Also speaking, the Olowu of Owu, Oba Saka Matemilola, and the Chief Imam of Gbagura, Prof. Emeritus Kamaldeen Balogun, commended the project, noting that it has eliminated the stress of travelling to Lagos for international departures.
Pilgrims' Reactions
On behalf of the pilgrims, Dr. Muritala Ejalonibu described the experience as historic, while other travellers expressed excitement at being among the first to depart from the new airport. The successful arrival in Saudi Arabia sets a positive tone for the 2026 Hajj season, highlighting Ogun State's growing role in facilitating religious tourism and international travel.
