‘To promote trade, tourism’ — Zamfara begins construction of int’l airport

Dauda Lawal, governor of Zamfara, says the state has started constructing its international airport to promote trade and tourism.

Lawal spoke on Thursday when Festus Keyamo, minister of aviation and aerospace, officially unveiled the construction work on the Gusau International Airport, according to a statement issued by Sulaiman Bala Idris, the governor’s spokesperson.

He said the project is intended to be a smart airport designed to accommodate domestic and international flights.

The governor said the airport project would include the construction of a 3.4 kilometre primary runway suitable for large commercial aircraft, installation of runway lighting, and navigational aids.

Lawal said his administration is determined to transform the state into a compelling investment destination that would attract both local and international investors.

“Honourable minister, guests, ladies, and gentlemen, the airport will have a modern terminal building with passenger facilities, including check-in counters, automated baggage handling systems, waiting areas, and customs and immigration services buildings,” the governor said.

“This is in addition to an air traffic control tower equipped with state-of-the-art communication and surveillance systems.

“Further, it will include the construction of maintenance hangars, fire and rescue stations, fuel storage facilities, and other ancillary buildings, access roads to the airport, parking facilities for passengers and staff, water supply, sewage, electrical systems, and telecommunication infrastructure.

“There will also be a cargo wing and the landscaping of the airport surroundings to enhance the project’s aesthetic appeal.

“It will have the capacity to land most aeroplanes. It is intended to facilitate more accessible and more efficient travel to and from Zamfara state, promoting social interaction, business and tourism.”

Lawal said the project will be handled by Triacta Nigeria Limited with JBI Tech Consult serving as the consulting firm and will be completed within 30 months according to the contractual agreement.

Speaking on the project’s economic benefits, Lawal said it would provide direct air access to the state, eliminating the difficulties businessmen and women face when exporting and importing goods and services.

In his remarks, Keyamo said the state had previously been disadvantaged in terms of facilities.

He said while other parts of the north-west have good airports, Zamfara has lagged despite being an agricultural hub of the zone.

“But it is better late than never. An international journalist called me and asked whether Zamfara needed an airport. I firmly believe that having an airport in Zamfara is more than just a matter of commercial viability; it is a crucial social amenity for the people,” Keyamo said.

“Looking around today, I am convinced that the state is fully ready for this development.

“I want to come here next year to flag off the Hajj operations. Intending pilgrims from Zamfara have suffered for many years in other states to board a plane to the Holy Land. It will never happen again.”

The minister reiterated his commitment to making the airport project a reality.