By Dickson Omobola

Nigeria’s leading airline, Air Peace, Friday night, commenced its 2025 Hajj operations with the airlift of pilgrims from Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri, Imo State.

The flight, operated with a wide-body Boeing 777-300 aircraft, marked the airport’s first-ever international operation and the first time such a large aircraft landed on its runway.

A total of 315 pilgrims were airlifted on the non-stop inaugural flight from Owerri to Medina, Saudi Arabia, marking a new chapter for the South-East region in religious tourism and international connectivity.

Vice President of Nigeria, Senator Kashim Shettima, flagged off the flight, commending Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State for promoting religious tolerance and inclusiveness in the state.

In his address, the Vice President encouraged the pilgrims to uphold Nigerian values and serve as true ambassadors of the nation while in the Holy Land.

Governor Uzodinma, in his remarks, reiterated his administration’s commitment to enhancing the state’s aviation infrastructure.

He said the airport would also support the airlift of Christian pilgrims in future exercises, further positioning Owerri as a hub for religious and international travel.

Also present at the event was the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, alongside other dignitaries and religious leaders from across the country, lending credence to the unity and national significance of the occasion.