Another group of pilgrims from Ogun State has touched down at the Gateway International Airport in Iperu, marking the completion of their Hajj journey. The flight, operated by Flynas Airlines, brought back 345 worshippers from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, with a smooth landing on Friday at 5:12 p.m.
This arrival follows the first batch, which had returned just a day earlier at 10 p.m., also with 345 pilgrims. Alhaji Shamsideen Apelogun, the Amirul Hajj for the 2026 pilgrimage, officially received the second contingent. He highlighted the significance of utilizing the state’s international airport for direct flights, calling it a historic milestone for Ogun.
Apelogun expressed personal pride in being part of the first group to experience international arrivals at the new facility. He extended gratitude to Governor Dapo Abiodun for his continuous support and oversight during the entire pilgrimage. The governor, according to Apelogun, remained actively involved, frequently checking on the pilgrims’ welfare throughout their stay in Medina and Makkah.
The conduct of Ogun pilgrims was also praised. Apelogun noted their exemplary behavior, which earned the state positive recognition among Hajj officials. The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria had earlier ranked Ogun pilgrims among the best-behaved contingents during this year’s rites.
Encouraging the returning worshippers, Apelogun urged them to maintain the virtues of patience, discipline, and devotion they cultivated during the sacred journey. He thanked Allah for ensuring their safety and commended the Ogun State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board for its effective coordination.