GOVERNOR Dauda Lawal has recorded a major milestone in the history of Zamfara State following the successful departure of the inaugural Hajj flight from the newly constructed Gusau International Airport.
In a statement sent to News Point Nigeria by Governor Dauda Lawal, the inaugural flight departed the airport on Friday with 415 intending pilgrims from Zamfara aboard Max Air flight NGL270 heading to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage.
The historic airlift comprised 288 male pilgrims and 127 female pilgrims, marking the first time pilgrims from the state would fly directly from Gusau to Saudi Arabia without travelling through neighbouring states.
Speaking during the inaugural flight ceremony, Governor Lawal expressed excitement and gratitude over what he described as a landmark achievement for the state.
The governor said the construction of the international airport remained one of the most important legacy projects of his administration.
“I am happy today that our pilgrims will be flying directly from Gusau International Airport to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for this year’s pilgrimage,” he said.
“Many doubted this would become a reality, but today it has. We began building this International Airport on June 18, 2024.”
Governor Lawal further described the development as a fulfilment of campaign promises made to the people of Zamfara State.
“I can’t express how happy I am. To our intending pilgrims, this is a great opportunity to travel comfortably. In less than 4 hours, they will reach Saudi Arabia. Before, our pilgrims had to travel to Sokoto or Kano before they could fly for Hajj,” he stated.
“Words cannot fully express my happiness, but I will say this is a historic milestone and a fulfilment of our campaign promises. I am committed to doing even more for our dear state.”
The governor also appreciated residents of the state for their continued support and prayers for his administration.
“I thank the people for their prayers and trust in us. This is just the beginning,” he added.
Governor Lawal further disclosed that his administration had already commenced discussions with airline operators for the commencement of commercial flight operations from the airport.
“We have already begun discussions with airlines that will operate commercial flights from the Gusau International Airport,” he said.
He concluded by wishing the intending pilgrims a successful Hajj exercise while urging them to pray for Zamfara State and Nigeria.
“I wish our intending pilgrims a successful flight and pilgrimage. I also urge them to pray for Zamfara and Nigeria,” the governor added.