Imo airport achieves milestone with first international flight to Saudi Arabia

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The Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri, Imo State, recorded a historic milestone with the successful takeoff of its first international flight.

According to The PUNCH, the non-stop journey, operated by Air Peace, carried 315 Muslim pilgrims from Owerri to Medina, Saudi Arabia, marking the commencement of the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage.

Vice President Kashim Shettima, who officially inaugurated the flight, described the event as “a symbol of progress, unity, and Nigeria’s expanding presence in global aviation.”

The flight, which took place on Saturday, was operated with a Boeing 777-300—one of the largest commercial aircraft types—underscoring the upgraded capacity of the airport to handle wide-body, long-haul operations.

“This successful operation is not just a routine flight; it is a testament to how far our aviation infrastructure has come,” said Shettima, commending Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma for his investment in both infrastructure and religious inclusivity.

Governor Uzodinma, speaking at the event, reiterated his administration’s commitment to transforming Owerri into a regional aviation hub that caters to both Christian and Muslim pilgrims.

“Our goal is to make Imo a central point for spiritual journeys in Nigeria, whether it’s to Jerusalem or Mecca,” the governor said. “We will continue to invest in facilities that enhance travel experience and safety.”

Also present at the event was the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, who described the development as a significant step in easing pilgrimage logistics for intending pilgrims from the South-East.

In a statement, Air Peace dismissed circulating rumors about being removed from Hajj operations, noting that the successful flight reaffirmed the airline’s operational capability and dedication to national service.

“This flight affirms our readiness and reliability as a leading player in Nigeria’s aviation sector,” the airline stated. “We are proud to be pioneers in this historic movement and will continue to support national and religious connectivity.”

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