Ogun pilgrims arrive Saudi Arabia as new airport begins hajj flights

The first group of Muslim pilgrims from Ogun State has arrived safely in Saudi Arabia for the 2026 hajj, marking the start of international operations at the state’s new airport.

According to a statement by Governor Dapo Abiodun’s media aide, Kayode Akinmade, the pilgrims departed from Gateway International Airport late Sunday night and landed at King Abdulaziz International Airport in the early hours of Monday.

The group consisted of 345 pilgrims, including 151 men and 194 women, alongside officials of the Ogun State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board.

On arrival, they were received by Saudi authorities and taken through immigration and security procedures before being transported to their hotel accommodation in Medina ahead of the pilgrimage rites.

The flight is significant as it represents the first international trip from the Gateway International Airport, which was recently inaugurated by Bola Tinubu in April.

Speaking on the development, Abiodun described it as a major milestone for the state’s aviation sector and economic growth. He noted that the journey, covering about 4,600 kilometres non-stop, highlights the airport’s capacity to handle international travel.

The governor said the new facility would improve connectivity, support commerce, and position Ogun as a key hub for global engagement.

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He also commended the Federal Government and the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria for supporting the project and designating the airport as an official departure point for pilgrims.

The successful airlift of the first batch signals the beginning of hajj operations from the airport, with more pilgrims expected to depart in the coming days.