Iperu — The first batch of Ogun State pilgrims who participated in the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is expected to arrive at the Gateway International Airport (GIA), Iperu, on Thursday, June 4, 2026.

The Airport Manager, Engr. Adebowale Arogundade, disclosed that all necessary arrangements have been concluded to ensure a seamless reception and processing of the returning pilgrims.

According to him, Flynas Airlines, a Saudi Arabian carrier, will transport 345 pilgrims aboard an Airbus A330 from Jeddah. The aircraft is scheduled to depart Saudi Arabia at 1:00 p.m. local time and arrive at the Gateway International Airport at approximately 7:50 p.m. Nigerian time.

The returning pilgrims, who joined millions of Muslims across the globe in observing the sacred rites of Hajj in the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah, are expected to be welcomed by government officials, family members, friends, and other well-wishers at the airport.

Speaking on the level of preparedness, Engr. Arogundade said adequate logistics, security, and medical support arrangements have been put in place to facilitate the smooth movement of the pilgrims from the airport to their respective destinations across Ogun State.

He commended the Ogun State Government for its support towards the successful participation of the state’s pilgrims in this year’s Hajj exercise and praised officials of the Ogun State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board for their dedication and commitment throughout the pilgrimage.

The Airport Manager also urged relatives and friends of the returning pilgrims to cooperate with airport and security personnel during the reception process to ensure orderliness, safety, and efficient crowd management.

The arrival of the first batch marks the commencement of the return phase of Ogun State pilgrims from the 2026 Hajj exercise.