Shettima, Sultan storm Owerri airport as Air Peace flies Hajj pilgrims to Saudi Arabia

History was made on Friday at the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri as it hosted its first international flight—a major milestone in the airport’s operational capabilities.

Air Peace, the largest airline in West and Central Africa, operated the inaugural service with a Boeing 777-300, transporting 315 pilgrims from the South-East region directly to Medina for the 2025 Hajj.

The arrival and departure of the wide-body aircraft highlighted recent upgrades that now enable the airport to handle large-scale international flights, signaling a new era for global travel and religious tourism in the region.

Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima, who presided over the departure ceremony, commended Imo State Governor Senator Hope Uzodimma for promoting interfaith unity in the state.

He encouraged the pilgrims to act as worthy ambassadors of Nigeria while on their spiritual journey.

Governor Uzodimma, in his remarks, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to boosting aviation infrastructure, adding that the facility will also be available for Christian pilgrimages in the future.

The Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, was among several dignitaries who attended the event, underscoring its national significance and the sense of unity it fostered.

This successful flight also put to rest recent doubts about Air Peace’s role in the Hajj operations, reinforcing the airline’s reputation for reliability.

The launch of international Hajj flights from Owerri not only enhances Nigeria’s aviation reach but also strengthens regional connectivity and promotes religious coexistence.