KEY POINTS

• Gateway International Airport recorded its first international flight, transporting Ogun pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj.
• 345 pilgrims arrived safely in King Abdulaziz International Airport and proceeded to Medina for the pilgrimage.
• Officials say the development boosts connectivity, reduces travel stress, and positions Ogun as a growing aviation hub.

A major milestone has been recorded in Ogun State as the newly built Gateway International Airport successfully handled its first international flight, conveying Muslim pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for the 2026 Hajj exercise.

The development not only marks the commencement of this year’s pilgrimage operations in the state but also signals the airport’s entry into global aviation operations, highlighting its readiness for international travel and positioning it as a strategic infrastructure asset.

The first batch of 345 pilgrims from Ogun State landed safely at King Abdulaziz International Airport in the early hours of Monday, where they were received by Saudi officials and guided through immigration procedures in an orderly manner.

After completing arrival formalities, the pilgrims were transported to their hotel accommodations in Medina, where they are expected to rest and prepare for the spiritual rites of Hajj, marking the beginning of their religious journey in the Kingdom.

Abiodun Highlights Economic and Strategic Gains

Governor Dapo Abiodun described the inaugural flight as more than just a routine journey, emphasising that it represents a bold step in infrastructure development and economic expansion for the state.

He noted that the 4,600-kilometre nonstop flight from Iperu reflects deliberate efforts by his administration to improve connectivity, attract investment, and integrate Ogun State into global networks, while also reducing the stress previously faced by pilgrims who had to travel to Lagos for international departures.

The governor expressed gratitude to Bola Ahmed Tinubu for supporting the timely completion of the airport, while also commending the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria for designating the facility as an official departure centre for Hajj operations. Officials noted that the airport’s modern infrastructure played a key role in securing approval, making it the first state-owned airport in South-West Nigeria to handle Hajj flights without restrictions.

Religious leaders and stakeholders, including Saka Matemilola and Kamaldeen Balogun, commended the project for eliminating the need for pilgrims to travel long distances to Lagos before departing for Saudi Arabia. They noted that the new airport has significantly reduced travel stress and improved convenience, while also enhancing the overall pilgrimage experience for residents of Ogun State.