Vice President Kashim Shettima has officially flagged off the first international flight from Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri, Imo State, marking a historic milestone for the airport and the South-East region.
The inaugural flight, operated by Air Peace, transported 315 Muslim pilgrims directly from Owerri to Medina, Saudi Arabia, as part of the commencement of the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage. The non-stop service was carried out using a Boeing 777-300 wide-body aircraft — the largest ever to land and take off from the airport — signifying its readiness for long-haul international operations.
In a statement issued on Saturday and shared with Sunday PUNCH, Air Peace described the flight as more than just a journey, calling it “a symbol of progress, unity, and Nigeria’s growing presence in global aviation.”
The Vice President commended Governor Hope Uzodinma for his administration’s investment in religious inclusivity and infrastructure development, which made the landmark flight possible. Governor Uzodinma reiterated his commitment to transforming Owerri into a regional aviation hub, catering to both Christian and Muslim pilgrimage travel.
The event also saw the presence of the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, underscoring the flight’s national significance.
Air Peace used the occasion to dismiss recent rumors suggesting it had been barred from participating in Hajj operations. “This successful flight puts to rest false claims of suspension,” the airline stated. “Instead, we’ve proven our operational strength and dedication to national service by launching Hajj flights from a new departure point.”
The airline affirmed its continued commitment to enhancing connectivity and enabling seamless religious travel across Nigeria.
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