Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima has officially launched the Federal Government’s 2025 Hajj airlift operation, sending off the first batch of Nigerian pilgrims to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The ceremony took place at the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri, Imo State—marking the airport’s first international departure in its over 40-year history.
Addressing the gathering, Vice President Shettima urged the 64,188 Nigerian pilgrims embarking on this year’s pilgrimage to uphold values that reflect Nigeria’s integrity and unity throughout their time in the holy land.
He commended Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, for fostering unity and religious tolerance by hosting the landmark event, describing it as a symbol of Nigeria’s growing harmony. “This gesture reflects our collective movement toward national cohesion,” Shettima noted.
According to a statement by Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Communications (Office of the Vice President), Shettima also conveyed President Bola Tinubu’s best wishes to the pilgrims. “As always, President Tinubu has ensured that all necessary resources have been made available to support a successful Hajj,” the statement read.
Governor Uzodimma described the occasion as a proud milestone in the state’s aviation journey. “This airport, built through communal effort more than four decades ago, stands today as a beacon of our progress,” he said. He also expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for the approvals that made the inaugural airlift possible, adding that the development would help open new investment opportunities in the state.
Looking ahead, Uzodimma announced plans to also use the airport for the departure of Christian pilgrims next month, calling it a reflection of the state’s commitment to inclusive governance and religious harmony.
Also in attendance was the Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, who praised the Imo State governor for championing peaceful coexistence and interfaith unity.