The 2026 Hajj airlift operations officially began in Lagos on Monday, May 4, 2026, with a seamless inaugural flight from the Pilgrims and Cargo Terminal of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, marking a strong and orderly start to this year’s pilgrimage exercise.

The first flight, operated by Air Peace, departed at approximately 1:41 a.m., transporting 315 pilgrims from Oyo State to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in what officials described as a smooth and hitch-free operation.

The successful take-off is being viewed as a reflection of effective coordination among aviation authorities, security agencies, airline operators, and Hajj management institutions involved in the exercise.

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), working in collaboration with state Muslim pilgrims’ welfare boards and designated carriers, is overseeing the nationwide airlift programme, which will run over the coming weeks.

Thousands of Nigerian pilgrims are expected to be transported to Makkah and Madinah.

Authorities say enhanced operational planning, improved passenger facilitation systems, and strengthened health and safety protocols have been put in place to ensure efficiency and reduce delays throughout the exercise.

Pilgrims have also been advised to strictly adhere to travel guidelines, complete all required documentation, and comply with baggage regulations to ensure a smooth departure process.

The successful launch of the Lagos flight sets a positive operational tone for the 2026 Hajj airlift, reinforcing confidence in Nigeria’s aviation coordination capacity and inter-agency preparedness for large-scale international religious travel.

A new aviation corridor has opened in southern Nigeria, as Uyo makes its debut on the international flight network with a landmark connection to Accra, Ghana.

The inaugural flight from Victor Attah International Airport to Kotoka International Airport marks more than just a new route, it represents a strategic shift in Nigeria’s aviation landscape, where subnational investment is driving connectivity and growth.

Backed by sustained infrastructure development, Akwa Ibom State is now positioning itself as a rising hub for regional travel, reducing reliance on traditional gateways and bringing international access closer to businesses and travelers in the South-South region.

The milestone event drew top-level participation, including Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo and Governor Umo Eno, underscoring the alignment between federal policy and state-level execution in expanding Nigeria’s aviation footprint.

For the state, the benefits are immediate and long-term.

Direct international access is expected to boost tourism inflows, facilitate trade, and attract investment into key sectors, while also generating employment opportunities across the aviation value chain.

The Uyo–Accra route also strengthens regional integration within West Africa, offering a more efficient travel option for passengers and businesses looking to connect across borders.

Industry analysts note that the development reflects a broader trend, where secondary airports, once underutilized, are being repositioned as active contributors to national economic growth.

Saturday’s inaugural flight was met with celebration and optimism, as stakeholders described it as the start of a new growth cycle for both Akwa Ibom and Nigeria’s aviation sector.

What was once a quiet domestic airport has now taken a decisive leap into international relevance, signaling that Nigeria’s aviation future may increasingly be shaped beyond its traditional hubs.

Air Peace Chairman, Dr. Allen Onyema, has received another major academic honour, as Abia State University conferred on him an Honorary Doctorate in Public Administration, bringing his total honorary degrees to four.

The recognition formed part of the university’s 32nd Convocation Ceremony, which brought together prominent academics, policymakers, and business leaders in Abia State.

University leadership at the event included Vice Chancellor Prof. Ndukwe J. Okeudo, Pro-Chancellor Dr. Agwu U. Agwu, and Registrar Dr. Acho Elendu, who all witnessed the conferment ceremony alongside guests and members of Air Peace management.

In his remarks, Dr. Onyema highlighted the critical role of education in national survival and development, calling for stronger collaboration between government and the private sector in funding and supporting education.

He stressed that education cannot be left to government alone, noting that private sector participation is essential for sustainable national progress.

“One thing is certain, I believe in education. Without education, the country is dead,” Onyema said. “Whatever we must do to encourage education, the government alone cannot fund it.”

He also expressed gratitude to Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, for nominating him for the honour, describing the recognition as a reminder of his ongoing responsibility to contribute to society.

Over the years, Onyema has built a reputation not only as a leading figure in Africa’s aviation industry but also as a philanthropist deeply involved in humanitarian support, education initiatives, and youth development programmes.

His latest honour reflects growing recognition of his efforts to combine enterprise with social impact, reinforcing his position as one of Nigeria’s most visible private sector advocates for education and nation-building.