Ogun Pilgrims Arrive in Saudi Arabia via Gateway Airport

The first batch of 345 Muslim pilgrims from Ogun State has safely arrived in Saudi Arabia for the 2026 Hajj, marking a historic milestone as it is the first international flight from Gateway International Airport. The flight departed at 11:00 PM on Sunday and landed at King Abdulaziz International Airport at 4:15 AM Nigerian time.

The group included 151 males and 194 females, along with officials from the Ogun State Muslim Pilgrim Welfare Board. Upon arrival, the pilgrims underwent immigration and security procedures before being transported to their accommodations in Medina.

Governor Dapo Abiodun highlighted the significance of this journey, emphasizing the administration's commitment to infrastructural and economic expansion. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had previously visited Ogun State on April 4, 2026, to inaugurate the airport.

The airport is noted as the first state-owned facility in South West Nigeria, facilitating Hajj operations without limitations, and is equipped with modern infrastructure.