Ogun receives 345 returning Hajj pilgrims at Gateway Airport

Ogun State has received the first batch of 345 pilgrims who returned from the 2026 Hajj in Saudi Arabia, marking their safe arrival at the Gateway International Airport, Ilisan-Iperu Remo.

The pilgrims, made up of 151 males and 194 females, landed at about 8:41 pm on Thursday aboard a Flynas A330 aircraft directly from Saudi Arabia after completing the spiritual exercise in Mecca and Medina.

The arrival also marks a notable milestone for the airport, which handled its first direct Hajj return flight from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The pilgrims were received by top government officials, including representatives of the state government led by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Tokunbo Talabi, alongside the Head of Service, Olanrewaju Iskeel Saka.

Speaking at a reception held at the airport, Governor Dapo Abiodun, represented by the SSG, described the successful Hajj operation as a major achievement for the state.

“I feel very happy and elated because many people thought this day would not be possible, but we thank God Almighty for making it a reality.

“The departure was very smooth, the return has been smooth, and the handling of passengers has gone very well,” he said.

Abiodun commended the pilgrims for their conduct during the holy exercise, describing them as good ambassadors of the state.

He urged them to reflect the lessons of the pilgrimage in their daily lives, stressing humility, obedience to the law, and good conduct.

“I want to charge them to let people see the signs of a transformed person in them—greater humility, obedience to the law, goodness, and conduct that reflect the experience of someone who has just returned from the Holy Land,” he stated.

The governor also assured that the state would continue to improve Hajj operations and support pilgrims in future exercises.

Speaking, the Consultant to the Governor on Islamic Affairs and leader of the first batch, Sheikh Iskeel Lawal Sugar, commended the governor for his support and constant engagement during the pilgrimage.

“I want to appreciate our Governor for his efforts in Hajj affairs. He was constantly calling to check on us in Mecca. He is a good leader,” he said.

Some of the returning pilgrims expressed gratitude to God for a safe journey and thanked the state government for its welfare support, describing the experience as smooth and memorable.

They also praised the direct landing at the Gateway International Airport, calling it convenient and historic.