By Victoria Onehi
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo SAN CON FCIarb (UK), marked a significant milestone with the commissioning of the Sultan Abubakar International Airport, Sokoto Hajj Terminal. This event also celebrated the flagging off of the 2024 first flight Hajj operation in Sokoto State and the renaming of the facility to Sen. Aliyu Wamakko Hajj Terminal.
A statement by the SA Media and Communications to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Tunde Moshood, disclosed that the commissioning ceremony was graced by an array of distinguished guests, including the Executive Governor of Sokoto State, Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto, FCNA PhD, the Deputy Governor, Idris Mohammad Gobir, and Senator Aliyu Wamakko.
Also in attendance at the occasion are the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammed Saad Abubakar III, along with the Minister of State for Water Resources, Bello Mohammed G, and the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Olubunmi Kuku.
In his keynote address, the Aviation Minister underscored the importance of the Hajj terminal, stating, “The commissioning of this terminal is a testament to our commitment to enhancing the aviation infrastructure in Nigeria and improving the experience of our pilgrims. This facility will not only serve the immediate needs of Hajj pilgrims but will also bolster the overall capacity and efficiency of our aviation sector.”
Governor Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto commended the Federal Government and the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development for their dedication to improving aviation infrastructure in the region. He noted, “The development of this terminal is a crucial step in facilitating the smooth transit of our pilgrims and ensuring their comfort and safety. This is a proud moment for Sokoto State.”
The renaming of the terminal to Sen. Aliyu Wamakko Hajj Terminal was the highlight of the event, honouring the significant contributions of Senator Wamakko to the development of Sokoto State and the aviation sector. Senator Wamakko expressed his gratitude, saying, “This recognition is a profound honour. I am deeply committed to the continued progress of our state and our nation.”
The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammed Saad Abubakar III, lauded the efforts of all stakeholders involved in this project and emphasized the importance of such initiatives in fostering national unity and development. He remarked, “This terminal stands as a symbol of our collective effort towards achieving greater heights in our national development.”
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, reaffirmed the government’s dedication to continuous improvement in the aviation sector, promising more developments to come.
