Air Peace has made history by executing the first-ever Owerri international Hajj flight at the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, Imo State. The airline airlifted 315 pilgrims directly to Medina, Saudi Arabia, in a landmark 2025 Hajj operation. This flight signals a major boost for the South-East in both religious travel and aviation connectivity.
For this historic operation, Air Peace deployed its wide-body Boeing 777-300 aircraft, making it the first of such aircraft to land in Owerri. This move confirms the upgraded status of the airport and its capacity to handle large-scale, international aviation activity.
The pilgrims embarked on a non-stop flight from Owerri to Medina, marking a new era for religious tourism in Nigeria’s South-East. This breakthrough is also a milestone for Nigeria’s aviation sector, which continues to expand international operations across various regions of the country.
Vice President of Nigeria, Senator Kashim Shettima, flagged off the inaugural flight. He commended Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodinma, for fostering religious tolerance and promoting inclusive development. The Vice President also urged the pilgrims to be worthy ambassadors of Nigeria during their spiritual journey in the Holy Land.
Governor Uzodinma, in his remarks, reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to improving aviation infrastructure in Imo State. He highlighted the airport’s strategic potential to facilitate both Muslim and Christian pilgrimages, positioning Owerri as a growing center for religious and international travel.
The Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, attended the occasion, accompanied by prominent religious leaders and dignitaries. Their presence symbolized national unity and further elevated the significance of the event.
This success story also comes amid reports that Air Peace had been suspended from participating in Hajj operations. The airline’s launch of the Owerri international Hajj flight firmly debunks those claims, reinforcing its role as a trusted aviation partner in national and religious service.
With this development, both Air Peace and the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport have entered a new chapter in aviation excellence. This operation promotes regional integration and reinforces Nigeria’s capacity to handle diversified international traffic.
The success of this flight sets a precedent. It reflects the growing confidence in domestic carriers and underscores the aviation potential across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones. It is also a proud moment for Owerri, now firmly placed on the global religious aviation map.
