Vice President, Kashim Shettima, has flagged off the Federal Government’s inaugural airlift of pilgrims from Nigeria to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the 2025 Hajj in Imo State.
The grand ceremony which took place at the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, Owerri, Imo State, South-East Nigeria, marked the first international departure of the Airport.
The VP disclosed, “a total of 64,188 Nigerians are scheduled to participate in this year’s pilgrimage”, and hailed the Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodimma, “for promoting unity, religious tolerance by hosting the inaugural flight ceremony in his state”.
According to the VP’s official X account (@officialSKSM): “The Vice President, Senator @KashimSM, on Friday, flagged off the Federal Government’s inaugural airlift of pilgrims from Nigeria to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the 2025 Hajj, with a charge to intending pilgrims to ensure that their conduct throughout their stay in the Holy Land reflects the values Nigeria holds dear.
“The grand ceremony, held at the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, Owerri, Imo State, South-East Nigeria, marked the airport’s first international departure. A total of 64,188 Nigerians are scheduled to participate in this year’s pilgrimage. Flagging off the inaugural airlift, Senator @KashimSM applauded Governor @Hope_Uzodimma1 for promoting unity, religious tolerance, mutual respect, and inclusion by hosting the inaugural flight ceremony in his state, noting that the gesture is emblematic of Nigeria’s progress toward national harmony.
““Let me also take a moment to commend His Excellency, the Governor of Imo State, Senator @Hope_Uzodimma1, for fostering this atmosphere of religious tolerance, mutual respect, and inclusion. His support is both heartening and symbolic of a nation coming into harmony with itself,” he stated.”
Photos: @officialSKSM
