May 31, (THEWILL) – Air Peace, West and Central Africa’s largest carrier, has successfully concluded the first phase of its 2025 Hajj operations to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, reaffirming its role as a key facilitator of Nigeria’s annual religious pilgrimage.
The airline completed the initial phase of the airlift on May 24, 2025, after operating 16 flights and transporting over 5,000 pilgrims.
The operations began on May 9, 2025, with the National Inaugural Hajj Flight from Owerri Airport, Imo State — a ceremony attended by Nigeria’s Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima.
Air Peace handled Hajj flights for pilgrims from 15 Nigerian states as well as the Armed Forces, utilizing various airports across the country for ease of access and efficient operations.
The departure hubs included Abuja Airport for pilgrims from Kogi and Benue; Maiduguri Airport for Borno; Yola Airport for Taraba; Ilorin Airport for Ekiti and Ondo; Lagos Airport for Edo and the Armed Forces; Owerri Airport for Imo; and Port Harcourt Airport for pilgrims from Abia, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Rivers states.
Stakeholders have described the successful completion of the first phase as a testament to Air Peace’s commitment to supporting national religious programmes and delivering exceptional service on spiritually significant journeys.
To support the operation, the airline deployed one of its wide-body Boeing 777 aircraft.
Speaking on the milestone, Air Peace’s Director of Flight Operations, Captain Augustin Kamano, expressed satisfaction with the seamless coordination and lauded the contributions of all involved.
“This first phase demonstrated our operational capability and commitment to national service. We are proud of our performance and grateful for the support from all relevant stakeholders,” Kamano said.
He added that the second phase of the 2025 Hajj airlift would begin on June 13 and run through July 2, “by the grace of God.”
Air Peace’s Chief Operating Officer, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Olajide, also expressed appreciation to the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), aviation and security agencies, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for their support.
“We remain dedicated to excellence and national service. Our successful Hajj operations reflect professionalism, teamwork, and the trust reposed in us by the Nigerian government and people,” she said.
As preparations for the second phase commence, Air Peace has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring safety, efficiency, and comfort for all pilgrims throughout the sacred journey.
Since its inception in 2014, the airline has grown into a major aviation force, boasting Nigeria’s largest fleet and launching several regional and international routes, including Jeddah, Johannesburg, and London.
Its consistent involvement in Hajj operations since 2019 further underscores its reputation as a dependable partner in both national and religious endeavours.
Anthony Awunor, is a business correspondent who holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Linguistics (UNILAG). He is also an alumnus of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria Kaduna State. He lives in Lagos.
