Gusau International Airport in Zamfara State has recorded its first aircraft landing, marking a significant milestone as the state prepares to receive high-profile dignitaries in the coming days.
The development was confirmed in a statement by Sulaiman Idris, spokesperson to Governor Dauda Lawal, who disclosed that a Bombardier Challenger 605 aircraft, operated by the Federal Government, landed successfully at approximately 4:30 p.m. on Sunday.
Describing the event as historic, Idris said the governor personally witnessed the maiden landing, which he noted represents a major step forward in the state’s infrastructure development.
According to him, the aircraft, bearing registration number 5N-FGZ, conducted a one-off test flight aimed at assessing the airport’s readiness for VIP operations scheduled for the coming week.
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He explained that the test was carried out in line with the provisions of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations, adding that the state government had earlier secured approval from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), which granted a “No Technical Objection” (NTO) for the operation.
The flight, he added, was conducted under Visual Flight Rules (VFR), limiting operations strictly to daylight hours between sunrise and sunset.
Governor Lawal expressed satisfaction with the successful test run, noting that the development represents a significant boost to his administration’s efforts to reposition Zamfara State, particularly given the absence of a functional airport in the state since its creation over three decades ago.
The construction of the airport was officially flagged off in June 2024, with a projected completion timeline of 30 months.
The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to transforming Zamfara into an attractive destination for both local and international investment, stressing that critical infrastructure such as an airport is essential to achieving that vision.
Earlier, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, who performed the groundbreaking ceremony for the project, had underscored the importance of the airport, describing it as a crucial social and economic asset for the people of the state.