Owerri, Imo State — Nigeria today etched a new chapter in its spiritual and national journey as the nation launched its first-ever official inaugural Hajj flight from Owerri, Imo State, a milestone celebrated with grandeur and deep national pride. The event, held at Sam Mbakwe Cargo Airport, signifies Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to making the sacred pilgrimage accessible, dignified, and inclusive for all its citizens.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, the keynote speaker, seized the moment to underscore the significance of this achievement. With heartfelt pride, he declared: “It is with great honour and a profound sense of national pride that I stand here today at this groundbreaking occasion—the first official Hajj flight launching from Owerri. This is more than a logistical milestone; it’s a testament to Nigeria’s unity, faith, and collective progress.”
He emphasized the event’s symbolic importance, saying, “This flight is a powerful reminder that Nigeria’s strength lies in its diversity and harmony. It challenges misconceptions and proves that our religious plurality is a source of unity rather than division. Today, Nigeria’s religious tapestry is shining brightly for the world to see.”
The Vice President lauded Governor Hope Uzodimma for his leadership in fostering religious tolerance and supporting this historic stride. “I commend His Excellency Governor Uzodimma for creating an environment of inclusion and peace, making today’s event possible. His leadership exemplifies the unity we cherish as a nation,” he affirmed.
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Addressing the gathering of government officials, religious leaders, and pilgrims, Shettima praised the efforts of the Nigeria Hajj Commission (NAHCON). “Our collective efforts, driven by dedication and vision, have culminated in this remarkable milestone. Nigeria’s Hajj operations are now more accessible, affordable, and structured for comfort and safety,” he stated.
Turning to the achievements of NAHCON, the Chairman, Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, expressed immense pride and gratitude. “Since taking office just eight months ago, my team has worked tirelessly to transform Nigeria’s Hajj operations,” he said. “Today’s inaugural flight from Owerri is a historic achievement, especially as it is the first time such a flight departs from this vibrant eastern city, symbolizing our commitment to inclusiveness and progress.”
He highlighted the key milestones achieved under his leadership: “We have secured Tent A Plus accommodations near Jamarat for VIP pilgrims—the first in Nigerian Hajj history—and managed to stabilize the cost of Hajj amidst global inflation and economic challenges, easing the burden on our pilgrims.”
Further emphasizing their proactive planning, the Chairman revealed improvements in health and safety protocols: “Given the extreme weather conditions in Saudi Arabia, we have engaged more officials for offshore duties to ensure the well-being of our pilgrims and staff. Our goal is to provide them with comfort and security throughout their spiritual journey.”
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He expressed heartfelt appreciation to Nigeria’s leadership for their support, acknowledging: “Special thanks go to President Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima for their unwavering backing, especially in securing financial support and the necessary resources vital for this success.”
As the pilgrims prepare to embark on their sacred journey, NAHCON’s Chairman urged them to carry Nigeria’s dignity and unity into the Holy Land: “Represent Nigeria well—obey your officials, follow guidelines, pray for our nation’s peace and progress, and keep your hearts open to Allah’s blessings.”
In closing, the Vice President reaffirmed Nigeria’s dedication to unity and religious harmony, emphasizing that today’s historic flight is a beacon of inclusion and hope. “This event demonstrates that Nigeria stands strongest when every citizen, regardless of region or faith, is respected and cherished. Today, we reaffirm our commitment to fostering peace, understanding, and brotherhood across all communities.”
Also, His Eminence the Sultan of Sokoto declared that the ceremony holding in Owerri is a big statement-that there are people who still believe in the unity of this country. He acknowledged how firm and tall Senator Hope Uzodimma stood to host this event. He added that the important message this event holds is that religion is an individual affair but uniting ourselves is a truth we must all face together. He commended the Governor for the religious harmony he is enabling.
The ceremony marks the beginning of the 2025 Hajj airlift operation, which NAHCON aims to complete within two weeks. The pilgrims boarded the Air Peace aircraft immediately after the ceremony.
