Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has announced that beginning in 2026, Muslim pilgrims from the state will be airlifted directly from the Samuel Ladoke Akintola International Airport, Ibadan, for the annual Hajj exercise.
The governor gave this assurance on Monday while addressing the 2025 Hajj pilgrims at the Oyo State Hajj Camp located at Olodo, in Lagelu Local Government Area.
Makinde, who expressed satisfaction with the level of preparation for the 2025 pilgrimage, said his administration is committed to improving the welfare of pilgrims and easing their travel processes. He emphasized that the initiative to commence airlifting from Ibadan is part of broader efforts to fully utilize the state’s airport infrastructure and reduce the stress associated with travelling to other states for international flights.
“By the grace of God, starting from next year, our Hajj pilgrims will no longer need to travel to Lagos or Abuja for their flights. They will take off right here from the Ibadan airport,” Makinde said, drawing applause from the gathered pilgrims and officials.
The governor also encouraged the intending pilgrims to be good ambassadors of Oyo State and Nigeria while in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, urging them to pray for the peace and continued development of the state.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Oyo State Pilgrims Welfare Board (Muslim Wing), Sheikh Hashim Atere, commended the state government for its support and proactive measures in facilitating a smooth Hajj operation this year.
The 2025 Hajj pilgrimage is expected to witness hundreds of participants from Oyo State, with officials confirming that all necessary arrangements for their welfare, accommodation, and transportation in Saudi Arabia have been finalized.
The proposed direct airlift from Ibadan in 2026 is expected to significantly boost the capacity and status of the Samuel Ladoke Akintola International Airport, and ease the burden on pilgrims from Oyo and neighboring states.
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