Oyo pilgrims for 2026 hajj will depart from upgraded Ibadan airport, ensuring smooth travel and improved facilities, officials confirm
The Chairman of the Oyo State Pilgrims Welfare Board Muslim Wing, Hashim Atere, announced that the state’s batch of pilgrims for the 2026 hajj will depart from the upgraded Samuel Ladoke Akintola International Airport, Ibadan.
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The statement was released by the Special Adviser to Governor Seyi Makinde on Media, Sulaimon Olarenwaju.
Atere highlighted that the airport’s readiness had been demonstrated when a wide-bodied aircraft conveying President Bola Ahmed Tinubu landed and took off seamlessly during the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Rasidi Ladoja’s coronation in September.
He said the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development had inspected the airport twice and confirmed its operational standards.
“There should not be any hindrance to our people taking off from the airport for the 2026 hajj pilgrimage,” Atere said.
He further expressed gratitude to Governor Makinde for his unwavering support, which has contributed to the accolades and awards enjoyed by the board.
The chairman assured intending pilgrims that the board would make the 2026 pilgrimage experience better than previous years.
He urged all pilgrims to meet the financial obligations by the December 5 deadline.
Governor Makinde flagged off the N41 billion upgrade of the Ibadan airport in 2024, renaming it Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport.
The project, which began with a ground-breaking ceremony at the airport premises, is expected to be completed within 12 months.
Makinde said the airport upgrade is part of his administration’s vision since 2019 to transform Ibadan into a regional business hub in the South-West.
“Our focus is on fighting poverty, not the poor. While it is true that times are tough, this project represents a significant investment in our future,” the governor said.
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The upgraded facilities are expected to provide smooth and safe operations for all passengers, particularly Oyo State pilgrims travelling to Saudi Arabia for the 2026 hajj.
David Okere is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering business, governance, public affairs, and human-interest stories with a commitment to accuracy, balance, and public interest reporting.
