Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has announced that from 2026, intending pilgrims from the state will be airlifted directly to Saudi Arabia from the Ladoke Akintola International Airport in Ibadan.
Makinde made the declaration during the farewell ceremony for the 2025 Hajj pilgrims held at the Hajj Camp in Ibadan. He urged the pilgrims to pray for both Oyo State and Nigeria while in the holy land.
He noted that the airport infrastructure is now ready for international operations, adding that projects like the ongoing Ibadan Circular Road and the reconstructed Olodo Bridge will support the functionality of the Hajj Camp and the airport.
I visited the airport two days ago, and I can confidently say that it is now a reality. We’re submitting a formal request to begin airlifting pilgrims from Ibadan starting next year,” he said.
The governor stressed that the days of symbolic take-offs—flying from Ibadan to Lagos before heading to Saudi Arabia—are over. Next year, pilgrims will take off directly from here to their destination,” he affirmed.
Makinde added that once Hajj flights begin from Ibadan, Customs and Immigration officers would be stationed at the airport, upgrading it to regional and international status.
He attributed the success of the project to faith, planning, and determination, noting that the dream of international flights from Ibadan is now being realized.
Governor Makinde also advised the departing pilgrims to be good ambassadors of Oyo State and to conduct themselves respectfully throughout the pilgrimage.
