…Amir Hajj Apelogun hails Gov Abiodun’s support, NAHCON rates contingent best-behaved

By Kazeem Adegoke, Iperu

The homecoming of Ogun State pilgrims from the 2026 Hajj took a historic turn on Friday as the second batch of 345 worshippers touched down directly from Jeddah at the Gateway International Airport, Iperu, at exactly 5:12 p.m.

The pilgrims, ferried aboard a Flynas Airbus A330, arrived to a rousing reception from family members and state officials, cementing the facility’s newfound role as a hub for international religious airlifts.

Addressing newsmen shortly after the aircraft taxied to a halt, the 2026 Amir Hajj, Alhaji Prince Shamsideen Adebayo Apelogun, described the direct flight as a landmark moment for the state.

“I am delighted that we are among the first pilgrims to utilise this international airport. This is a remarkable achievement in the history of Ogun State,” Apelogun said, his voice laced with emotion.

The Amir Hajj poured encomiums on Governor Dapo Abiodun for what he termed fatherly support that ensured a seamless spiritual exercise. “The Governor was there for all the pilgrims throughout their stay in Madinah. He constantly reached out to inquire about their welfare and ensure that they were adequately cared for,” he revealed.

Beyond the logistics, Apelogun beamed with pride as he disclosed that the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) rated the Ogun contingent among the best-behaved during the just-concluded pilgrimage. He commended the returning pilgrims for their discipline and adherence to regulations, which, according to him, earned the state glowing recognition among Hajj stakeholders.

“It is gratifying that our pilgrims conducted themselves so well that the national body singled us out for praise. I urge them to sustain the values of patience, discipline, and devotion they imbibed in the Holy Land,” Apelogun added, while thanking Almighty Allah for the safe return.

The return airlift operation continues a seamless post-Hajj movement for the Gateway State, with officials assuring that all pilgrims will be airlifted directly to Iperu in record time.

Ogunday.com gathered that the next batch is expected within days, as the state sustains its reputation for meticulous pilgrimage planning.