Ogun State Diverts Hajj Pilgrims to Lagos for 2026

The Ogun State government clarified the diversion of Hajj pilgrims to Lagos for the 2026 Hajj, stating that the decision was made due to logistical challenges at Gateway International Airport. The government denied claims that the airport was rejected by Saudi airlines, describing the relocation as a temporary logistical adjustment.

The statement, signed by Kayod Akinmad, the Special Adviser to the Governor, explained that the Saudi aviation authority was unable to secure landing slots for Nigerian carriers, necessitating the redirection of pilgrims to Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos. The Ogun State Muslim Pilgrim Welfare Board confirmed that Flyna Airlines was expected to airlift pilgrims, although it was noted that the airline had not landed at the airport for reasons unspecified.

The government emphasized that Gateway International Airport is fully certified for international flights, including Hajj operations, and highlighted that the first batch of pilgrims successfully departed without incident.