Owerri, Imo State — In a landmark development for Nigeria’s religious and national identity, the country flagged off its first-ever Hajj flight from the South-Eastern region. Departing from the Sam Mbakwe Cargo Airport in Owerri, this momentous event witnessed the airlift of 315 Muslim pilgrims from Imo, Abia, and Bayelsa states to the Holy Land of Madinah.
This unprecedented occasion was graced by Vice President Kashim Shettima, who delivered a powerful message of unity and shared national purpose.
“Today’s launch is more than just the takeoff of a flight—it’s a symbolic leap in national cohesion,” Shettima said. “We are witnessing a manifestation of Nigeria’s collective journey in faith, resilience, and inclusive progress.”
Shettima praised the initiative as a demonstration that Nigeria’s strength lies in its cultural and religious diversity, not division.
“This initiative shows the world that we can stand together—different in faith, but united in purpose,” he added.
The Vice President also commended Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State for his instrumental role in facilitating the historic event.
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“Governor Uzodimma has been pivotal in promoting an atmosphere of mutual respect and religious tolerance,” Shettima remarked. “This flight is a product of inclusive leadership and is something every Nigerian should be proud of.”
NAHCON Chairman Celebrates Milestone in Hajj Operations
Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, reflected on the tremendous strides made in the Commission’s operations under his leadership.
“In just eight months, we’ve made historic progress. This is the first time a Hajj flight has departed from Owerri. It underscores our commitment to making the pilgrimage accessible to all Nigerians, regardless of geography,” he stated.
Prof. Usman shared several achievements NAHCON has secured for the 2025 Hajj season, including:
VIP accommodations near Jamarat under the new Tent A Plus arrangement—first in Nigeria’s Hajj history.
Stabilized costs of pilgrimage despite global inflationary pressures.
- Advertisement -Enhanced health and safety protocols, with increased personnel deployed for offshore support in Saudi Arabia due to the extreme weather.
He extended deep gratitude to the nation’s top leadership for supporting NAHCON’s objectives:
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Shettima have provided unwavering support in funding and logistics. Without them, this wouldn’t have been possible.”
Sultan of Sokoto Echoes Message of Unity
Also present at the event, His Eminence, the Sultan of Sokoto, offered a compelling reflection on the deeper message behind the ceremony.
“Hosting this event in Owerri sends a bold message: that we, as Nigerians, still believe in unity,” the Sultan said. “Religion is a personal journey, but our national harmony is a shared responsibility.”
He praised Governor Uzodimma’s dedication to fostering interfaith harmony in a region traditionally considered less involved in Islamic activities.
A Sacred Journey Begins
The 2025 Hajj airlift officially kicked off with this flight, with Air Peace chartered to transport the pilgrims. The operation is expected to continue smoothly over the next two weeks, with NAHCON managing the logistics for thousands of Nigerian pilgrims.
As they boarded the aircraft, Professor Usman encouraged pilgrims to represent Nigeria with dignity:
“Respect your officials, follow instructions, and let your conduct reflect our country’s values. Keep Nigeria in your prayers—pray for peace, unity, and prosperity.”
Closing Remarks
Vice President Shettima closed the event by reiterating Nigeria’s commitment to religious inclusion and shared national values:
“Today is proof that our strength lies in respecting one another. We move forward as a nation not when we suppress our differences, but when we embrace them as tools for unity.”
This landmark moment is not just a logistical feat—it is a declaration that every Nigerian, regardless of region or faith, has a place in the nation’s journey forward.