By Bashir Rabe Mani, Sokoto
Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, has formally requested that the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development urgently repair the inadequate airfield lighting system at the Sultan Abubakar III International Airport, Sokoto.
This intervention is deemed critical to ensure smooth operations for the upcoming 2026 Hajj airlift.
The request was conveyed during a courtesy visit by Governor Aliyu to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, at his office in Abuja.
The details were contained in a statement released Wednesday by Abubakar Bawa, Director-General of Media and Publicity at the Sokoto Government House.
Addressing Operational Challenges
Governor Aliyu highlighted that the current lack of a functional lighting system is a significant barrier to the airport’s efficiency, particularly regarding night-time operations.
He noted that the state is missing out on essential economic and logistical opportunities because airlines are currently unable to land or depart during night hours.
“We are deeply concerned about the lack of a functional lighting system at Sultan Abubakar III International Airport, especially as Hajj operations approach.
“Most of our flights to the Holy Land typically depart at night. Unless this issue is resolved, those operations will face serious difficulties”, the Governor stated.
In response, Minister Festus Keyamo assured the Governor that the Ministry would treat the lighting repairs with the utmost urgency to guarantee 24-hour operational capacity at the airport.
The Minister also commended Governor Aliyu for his proactive investment in the airport’s infrastructure, noting that the state’s contributions have significantly enhanced the facility’s functionality. Key infrastructure projects currently being spearheaded by the Sokoto State Government include:
It was gathered that the establishment of a modern Hajj terminal, beautification of the airport surroundings and ongoing construction of a new VIP lounge.
Keyamo reiterated the federal government’s commitment to maintaining efficient and effective airports across the nation.
The meeting included high-ranking officials from both the state and federal levels, including: Sokoto State Delegation: Secretary to the State Government, Muhammad Bello Sifawa; and Chief of Staff, Government House, Aminu Haliru Dikko.
Federal Ministry/Agency officials present were Permanent Secretary, Mahmoud Adam Kambari; and the Managing Director of the Nigeria Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Engr. Faruk Ahmed.
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