The second batch of Ogun State pilgrims who participated in the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage have successfully arrived at the Gateway International Airport, Iperu, on Friday at exactly 5:12 p.m. Nigerian time. 

The group of 345 pilgrims were conveyed aboard an Airbus A330 operated by Flynas, arriving directly from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This marks another successful phase of Ogun State’s return airlift operation.

Upon their arrival, the Amirul Hajj for the 2026 pilgrimage, Alhaji Prince Shamsideen Adebayo Apelogun, described this direct transportation from Saudi Arabia to the Gateway International Airport as a remarkable achievement in the history of Ogun State. 

He expressed his delight in being among the first pilgrims to utilise this international airport for an international flight. 

He also took the opportunity to thank His Excellency Prince Dapo Abiodun for his fatherly support and unwavering commitment to the successful completion of the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia.

Governor Abiodun was notably present throughout the pilgrims’ stay in Medina and Makkah, consistently reaching out to inquire about their welfare and wellbeing to ensure they were adequately cared for. 

Alhaji Apelogun sincerely appreciated all those who contributed to the success of the pilgrimage, in particular the Ogun State government, members of the Ogun State Muslim Welfare Board, Chairman Sheik Olohungbebe, Consultant to the Governor on Islamic Affairs Sheik Lawal Isikil Sugar, various Alfas, administrative staff, the Executive Secretary Alhaji Ajibola Taiwo and his team, the medical team led by Dr Oloko, the information team led by the permanent secretary, Alhaji Waheed Adesina and everybody involved. 

He expressed that it was a distinct privilege and honour to serve Ogun State alongside them on this sacred journey.

Furthermore, he praised the Ogun State pilgrims for their exemplary conduct in the Holy Land, noting that their discipline and adherence to regulations earned the state commendation among Hajj stakeholders. 

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria rated Ogun State pilgrims among the best-behaved contingents during the 2026 pilgrimage.

In conclusion, he urged the pilgrims to sustain the values of patience, discipline, and devotion that they imbibed during the pilgrimage. He also expressed heartfelt thanks to Almighty Allah for granting them a safe and successful Hajj, and commended the Ogun State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board for the success recorded throughout this sacred journey.