Ogun Finalises Safety, Operational Readiness Ahead of First International Hajj Flight
By Abdulrazaq Auwal
The Ogun State Government has intensified last-mile aviation and operational checks ahead of the maiden international departure from the Gateway International Airport.
According to the government over 690 pilgrims have been scheduled for airlift to Saudi Arabia for the 2026 Hajj.
Governor Dapo Abiodun disclosed that the state engaged the Director of Aerodrome and Airspace Standards in a high-level interface aimed at validating compliance with aviation safety protocols and ensuring the airport meets all regulatory benchmarks required for international operations.
According to the governor, the engagement forms a core component of the state’s readiness framework, designed to guarantee a seamless, secure, and incident-free takeoff for the inaugural flight.
He emphasised that the move aligns with Ogun State’s broader aviation strategy to establish the Gateway International Airport as a viable hub for international travel and religious pilgrimage logistics.
Abiodun noted that the upcoming Hajj operation represents a critical test case for the airport’s operational capacity, particularly in passenger handling, safety compliance, and inter-agency coordination.
He added that the state remains committed to delivering a world-class aviation experience while ensuring strict adherence to global standards.
The maiden flight is expected to mark a significant milestone in Ogun State’s aviation history, positioning the Gateway International Airport as a key player in Nigeria’s growing air transport and Hajj operations ecosystem.
The development comes amid increasing efforts by subnational governments to decentralise pilgrimage airlift operations and expand access to international travel infrastructure across the country.
