Governor Dauda Lawal has described the commencement of direct Hajj flights from the newly constructed Gusau International Airport as a historic milestone for Zamfara State, following the successful departure of the inaugural flight to Saudi Arabia on Friday.
The inaugural flight, operated by Max Air with flight number NGL270, departed from the Gusau International Airport carrying 415 intending pilgrims from Zamfara State for the 2026 Hajj exercise.
The passengers comprised 288 male and 127 female pilgrims.
Speaking during the inaugural flight ceremony, Governor Lawal expressed joy and gratitude over the successful takeoff, describing the airport project as one of the most significant legacy projects of his administration.
He noted that the direct flight to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia marked the fulfilment of a major campaign promise and would ease the burden previously faced by pilgrims who had to travel to Kano or Sokoto before boarding flights for Hajj.
Governor Lawal recalled that construction work on the Gusau International Airport commenced on June 18, 2024, adding that many people doubted the project would become a reality within such a short period.
According to him, the successful operation of the inaugural Hajj flight demonstrates the commitment of his administration to infrastructural development and improving the welfare of citizens.
“I am happy today that our pilgrims are flying directly from Gusau International Airport to Saudi Arabia for this year’s pilgrimage,” the governor said.
“Before now, intending pilgrims had to travel to Sokoto or Kano before they could fly for Hajj, but today they can travel comfortably from their own state and reach Saudi Arabia in less than four hours.”
The governor thanked the people of Zamfara State for their prayers and continued support, assuring them that his administration would continue to deliver impactful projects across the state.
He also disclosed that discussions had already commenced with airlines that would operate commercial flights from the airport in the near future.
Governor Lawal further urged the intending pilgrims to pray for peace, progress and stability in Zamfara State and Nigeria during their stay in the holy land.
The launch of the inaugural Hajj flight marks the beginning of international flight operations at the Gusau International Airport and is expected to boost transportation, economic activities and regional connectivity in Zamfara State.