Oyo State’s batch of pilgrims to the 2026 Hajj will take off from the upgraded Ladoke Akintola International Airport, Ibadan, the Chairman of Oyo State Pilgrims Welfare Board, Muslim Wing, Sheik Hashim Atere, has said.
The chairman made the statement while addressing newsmen in Ibadan, on Wednesday, December 3.
The chairman, who quoted the state governor, Engr Seyi Makinde, stated everything that is required for wide-bodied aircraft to take off from and land at the airport has been done.
The Chairman noted: “That was why the wide-bodied aircraft that conveyed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to Ibadan for the coronation of the Olubadan of Ibadan, His Imperial Majesty Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, was able to land at the airport in September. The aircraft also took off from the airport seamlessly.
“The Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development had visited the airport twice before the President visited and were satisfied with what they met on ground. So, everything is set for our pilgrims to take off from the airport. There should not be any hindrance to our people taking off from the airport for the 2026 hajj pilgrimage.”
Sheikh Atere expressed the appreciation of the board to Governor Makinde for his unwavering support enjoyed by the Board, saying that this had been responsible for all the accolades and awards received.
The chairman also assured all intending pilgrims that the Board would not leave any stone unturned to ensure that the 2026 pilgrimage is much better than the previous ones.
Sheik Atere called on all those who plan to go on pilgrimage with the Board to meet up with the financial obligations, as the December 5 payment deadline would not be extended.
