Ogun, Federal Agencies Fine-Tune Security For Gateway Airport Hajj Operations

Security agencies responsible for airport operations in Nigeria have pledged to collaborate with the Ogun State Government to ensure seamless Hajj operations at the Gateway International Airport Iperu-Remo.

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

Speaking at the meeting, the Commissioner for Transportation, Gbenga Dairo, said the airport has the necessary infrastructure, facilities, and management capacity to handle Hajj operations. He added that the facility has also been recognised by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) for the purpose.

According to him, the airport is a key component of the state government’s economic development agenda and has positioned Ogun State prominently on the global aviation map.

Dairo affirmed that the airport is fully prepared for Hajj operations, noting that the NCAA had already certified the facility for domestic commercial flights after granting the required approvals.

“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, 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,” he said.

He added that the agencies expressed satisfaction with the infrastructure and management capacity already in place.

“We have assured them that the state government is ready to provide everything required to ensure seamless operations for pilgrims and for the benefit of the state and the country,” Dairo said.

The commissioner further disclosed that a temporary camp would be established to process about 500 pilgrims expected to depart from the airport for the pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia.

Also speaking, the Consultant to the airport, Dapo Olumide, said the facility, which has already commenced commercial flight operations, is equipped with modern infrastructure capable of handling different categories of aircraft.

He noted that security agencies would advise the state government on additional measures required to guarantee successful Hajj operations, particularly as the NCAA has fully licensed the airport for such activities.

According to him, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) had earlier approved the airport for Hajj operations after inspecting its facilities, while the Ogun State Muslim Welfare Board is making arrangements to airlift pilgrims through the facility.

Also speaking, Uyiekpen Asuen of the NCAA confirmed that the airport meets the required operational standards, having received the necessary permits to commence commercial flights.

He added that the facility is among the 17 airports across the country designated for Hajj operations.

Representatives of the various security agencies present also outlined their operational requirements and stressed the need for strong inter-agency collaboration to ensure smooth and secure Hajj operations.