The first batch of muslim pilgrims from Ogun State has safely arrived in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the 2026 Hajj exercise.

The pilgrims arrived at the King Abdulaziz International Airport, Jeddah, at about 4:15 a.m. Nigerian time after departing the Gateway International Airport, Iperu, Ogun State, at exactly 11:00 p.m. last night.

The batch comprised 345 pilgrims, made up of 151 males and 194 females, alongside officials of the Ogun State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board.

On arrival, they were warmly received by Saudi Hajj officials and airport authorities before undergoing immigration and other security procedures in an orderly atmosphere.

The pilgrims were later transported in comfortable buses to their various hotel accommodations in Medinah, where they are expected to rest before continuing other Hajj rites and spiritual activities.

Some pilgrims who spoke with OGIS  correspondent, Khadijat Taiwo Soremekun expressed satisfaction and appreciated the Ogun State Government and the  Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board for the smooth coordination of the journey, describing the entire  process as stress-free and well organised.

One of them, Alhaji Muritala Ejalonibu, commended the state government for the arrangements put in place for this year’s Hajj operation,

noting that the use of the Gateway International Airport made the journey easier and faster as pilgrims no longer need to travel to Lagos before boarding their flight.

“We are happy to arrive safely in Saudi Arabia. The entire process was properly coordinated, and we appreciate the Ogun State Government for making the journey easy and comfortable for us,” he said.

Another pilgrim, Isimot Adeyemi, described the experience as memorable and prayed for Allah’s guidance and protection throughout the pilgrimage and  commended  Governor Abiodun for the establishment of Gateway International Airport which had greatly improved travel convenience for intending pilgrims from the state.The duo submitted that departing directly from Ogun State removed the stress of having to travel to Lagos and waiting in long queues before boarding.

On their part, Officials of the State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board who also spoke assured that adequate welfare and support services have been put in place for the pilgrims throughout their stay in the Holy Land, enjoining the 

 pilgrims to remain law-abiding, focus on the spiritual significance of Hajj, and continue to pray for Ogun State and Nigeria during the spiritual exercise. 

Meanwhile, the remaining batch of Ogun pilgrims is expected to arrive in Saudi Arabia within the next few days, which would bring the state’s 2026 Hajj airlift operation to a completion.