BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
In a historic breakthrough for Nigeria’s aviation sector, the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri, Imo State, recorded its first-ever international flight on the night of May 9, 2025.
The milestone moment was marked by the airlift of 315 Muslim pilgrims embarking on the 2025 Hajj to Medina, Saudi Arabia, aboard a wide-body Boeing 777-300 operated by Air Peace.
The deployment of the Boeing 777-300 — the largest aircraft to ever land at the Owerri airport — underscored the facility’s upgraded infrastructure and growing capacity to support long-haul international operations.
The landmark flight not only opened a new chapter for the airport but also symbolised a bold step forward in Nigeria’s drive for regional connectivity and inclusive development in the aviation industry.
“This is a proud moment for Imo State and Nigeria as a whole,” said Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima, who officially flagged off the flight.
He lauded Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodinma, for his commitment to religious inclusion and development, noting, “This administration has shown commendable dedication to promoting religious tolerance.”
Addressing the departing pilgrims, the Vice President encouraged them to uphold national values and be worthy ambassadors of Nigeria while in the Holy Land.
Governor Uzodinma, in his remarks, reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to transform the state’s aviation infrastructure into a strategic gateway for both religious and international travel.
“This airport is not just for Muslim pilgrims. It will serve Christians as well during their pilgrimages. We are building Owerri into a hub for faith-based tourism and global connectivity,” he declared.
The momentous occasion was further elevated by the presence of the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, along with other religious and political dignitaries from across Nigeria — a testament to the national importance and unifying nature of the event.
The successful operation also served as a timely refutation of speculations surrounding Air Peace’s alleged suspension from Hajj activities.
The airline not only remains a cornerstone of Nigeria’s Hajj operations but has also demonstrated its continued excellence by inaugurating the 2025 pilgrimage season from a new departure point — Owerri.
With the historic flight, Air Peace and the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport have etched their names into the narrative of Nigeria’s aviation advancement, symbolising a future defined by regional integration, religious unity and operational excellence.
