Security agencies in Nigeria have pledged full collaboration with the Ogun State Government to ensure smooth Hajj operations at the Gateway International Airport, Iperu-Remo.

The commitment was made on Monday during a strategic security meeting between state government officials and key security agencies at the airport in Ikenne Local Government Area.

Speaking at the meeting, the Commissioner for Transportation, Gbenga Dairo, said the airport possesses the required infrastructure, facilities, and management capacity to handle Hajj operations. He noted that the facility has already been certified by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) for domestic commercial flights and forms a key component of the state’s economic development agenda, positioning Ogun State on the global aviation map.

“The intention is for Hajj operations to take place at Gateway International Airport this year. Representatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigeria Customs Service, the Department of State Services, and the NCAA are here to outline the minimum requirements for a successful operation and assess the facilities available at the airport,” Dairo said.

He added that all agencies expressed satisfaction with the airport’s infrastructure and management capacity and affirmed that the state government is ready to provide everything required to ensure seamless operations for pilgrims. A temporary camp will be established to process about 500 pilgrims expected to depart from the airport for the pilgrimage to the Holy Land.

Consultant to the airport, Dapo Olumide, highlighted that the facility has commenced commercial flight operations and is equipped to handle multiple categories of aircraft. He also noted that security agencies would advise on additional measures to guarantee successful Hajj operations, following full licensing by the NCAA.

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria had earlier approved the airport for Hajj operations after inspecting its facilities, while the Ogun State Muslim Welfare Board is coordinating the airlifting of pilgrims.

NCAA representative Uyiekpen Asuen confirmed that the airport meets operational standards and is among the 17 airports nationwide designated for Hajj operations.

Representatives of the Nigeria Customs Service, Nigeria Immigration Service, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Nigeria Police Force, Amotekun Corps, Fire Service, Department of State Services, Port Health Services, and the Federal Ministry of Health emphasised the importance of strong inter-agency collaboration to ensure smooth operations for the pilgrims.