The Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri, Imo State, witnessed a historic milestone as it hosted its first-ever international flight, marking a significant advancement in the region’s aviation sector.
Vice President Kashim Shettima officially flagged off the inaugural international departure on Saturday, as Nigerian airline Air Peace airlifted 315 Muslim pilgrims directly from Owerri to Medina, Saudi Arabia.
The non-stop flight signaled the beginning of the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage and introduced a new chapter for both the airport and the South-East region.
According to a statement from Air Peace, the flight was operated with a Boeing 777-300, a wide-body aircraft, making it the first of its kind to land and take off from the Owerri runway.
The airline described the event as a powerful symbol of the airport’s upgraded infrastructure and readiness for international long-haul operations.
“This is not just a flight; it represents progress, unity, and Nigeria’s growing presence in global aviation,” the airline stated.
Speaking at the event, Vice President Shettima commended Governor Hope Uzodinma for his administration’s dedication to religious inclusivity and continued investment in critical infrastructure in Imo State.
Governor Uzodinma reiterated his commitment to transforming Owerri into a regional hub for religious air travel—serving both Christian and Muslim pilgrims—with ongoing improvements to aviation facilities.
Also present at the ceremony was the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, who joined in celebrating the historic achievement.
Air Peace also used the opportunity to dispel rumors of being suspended from Hajj operations, affirming its commitment to supporting national religious travel initiatives.
“By launching this service from a new departure point, we have further cemented our role as a vital connector in Nigeria’s aviation and pilgrimage sectors,” the airline added.
The milestone is expected to boost the South-East’s connectivity and open up new opportunities for international travel from the region.
