The first batch of Muslim pilgrims from Ogun State has safely arrived in Saudi Arabia for the 2026 Hajj, marking a historic milestone as Gateway Airport records its first international flight.
A total of 345 pilgrims, 151 men and 194 women, departed from the newly inaugurated Gateway International Airport at about 11:00 p.m. on Sunday aboard a Boeing 777 operated by Max Air.
They landed safely at the King Abdulaziz International Airport around 4:15 a.m. Nigerian time.
Upon arrival, the pilgrims were received by Saudi Hajj officials and airport authorities before completing immigration procedures.
They were then transported to their hotel accommodations in Medina, where they will rest ahead of the commencement of Hajj rites.
The flight represents the first international operation from the Ogun-based airport, commissioned on April 4, 2026, by Bola Tinubu.
The development signals a significant step towards improving regional connectivity and easing congestion at Lagos airports.
Governor Dapo Abiodun described the journey as a historic 4,600-kilometre non-stop flight, emphasizing that it reflects the state’s commitment to infrastructure development and economic growth.
Read also:
- Saudi Arabia restricts Hajj to permit holders, bans visit visa pilgrims worldwide
- BUK, Ummah For Earth launch Hausa version of green guide for Hajj
- Adamawa inaugurates 2026 Amirul Hajj committee
He noted that the airport would serve as a gateway for commerce, travel, and global engagement.
The governor also thanked the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria for designating the airport as an official Hajj departure centre, a move expected to simplify logistics and reduce travel stress for pilgrims in the South-West region.
Religious and traditional leaders, including Oba Saka Matemilola, praised the initiative, noting that it eliminates the need for pilgrims to travel to Lagos before international departures.
Officials urged the pilgrims to conduct themselves responsibly and adhere to the laws of their host country throughout their stay.
The successful airlift not only marks the start of Ogun State’s 2026 Hajj operations but also positions the Gateway International Airport as a growing hub for international travel in Nigeria.
