Security agencies in Nigeria have assured the Ogun State Government of their support to ensure smooth and secure Hajj operations at the Gateway International Airport located in Iperu-Remo.
The assurance was given on Monday during a strategic security meeting held at the airport in Ikenne Local Government Area of Ogun State.
Speaking during the meeting, the Ogun State Commissioner for Transportation, Engr. Gbenga Dairo, said the airport has the necessary infrastructure, facilities and management capacity to handle Hajj operations successfully. According to him, the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has already recognised and approved the airport for the purpose.
Dairo explained that the Gateway International Airport is an important part of the state government’s economic development plan and is expected to boost Ogun State’s presence in the global aviation sector.
He also confirmed that the airport has already received certification from the NCAA to operate domestic commercial flights.
“The plan is to conduct this year’s Hajj operations from the Gateway International Airport. Representatives from agencies such as the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigeria Customs Service, Department of State Services and the NCAA are here to review the facilities and outline the requirements for successful operations,” Dairo said.
He added that the agencies expressed satisfaction with the facilities and management structure already in place at the airport.
The commissioner further revealed that the state government plans to establish a temporary Hajj camp at the airport where about 500 pilgrims will be processed before departing for the pilgrimage to the Holy Land.
Also speaking, the aviation consultant to the Ogun State Government, Captain Dapo Olumide, said the airport is equipped with modern facilities capable of handling different categories of aircraft.
According to him, security agencies will also recommend additional measures needed to ensure safe and smooth Hajj operations.
Olumide explained that the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria had earlier inspected and approved the airport for Hajj operations, while the Ogun State Muslim Welfare Board is already making arrangements to airlift pilgrims from the airport.
A representative of the NCAA, Dr. Uyiekpen Asuen, also confirmed that the airport meets all required operational standards and has been granted the necessary approvals to begin commercial flight operations.
He disclosed that Gateway International Airport is among the 17 airports in Nigeria designated to handle Hajj operations.
Several security and government agencies attended the meeting, including 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 officials from the Federal Ministry of Health.
The agencies emphasised the need for strong cooperation among all stakeholders to ensure a smooth and successful Hajj operation.
