The Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has led a delegation to the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano State, Northwest Nigeria, for a comprehensive inspection of recently installed facilities aimed at enhancing the airlift of Pilgrims for 2024. He said that the visit is to ensure the smooth conduct of Hajj operations in the state.
Accompanied by some officials, including the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Aviation, Dr. Emmanuel Meribole, the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Olubunmi Kuku, and some of FAAN’s top flight Directors, the Minister assessed the readiness of the airport to cater for the needs of pilgrims during the sacred journey.
Before the facility inspection, the Minister paid a courtesy visit to the Kano State governor, Abba Kabir, who was represented by his Deputy, Mr, Aminu Gwarzo. During the meeting, the aviation minister expressed confidence for a smooth 2024 Hajj operation.
Keyamo further outlined three critical requests to the Kano State government for enhancing the efficiency and functionality of the airport.
Firstly, he urged the state government to facilitate the installation of a dedicated power line at the airport to address persistent issues of low power outages, particularly affecting the air-conditioning system.
Secondly, he appealed for the state’s support in acquiring two additional generating plants to supplement the electricity supply at the airport by ensuring uninterrupted operations for pilgrims and travellers.
Lastly, the Minister brought attention to properties belonging to Skypower that have been under dispute, seeking the state government’s intervention to resolve the matter amicably.
The Minister also expressed gratitude for the hospitality and support extended by the Kano State government and reiterated the ministry’s commitment to enhancing aviation infrastructure across Nigeria.
Responding, Mr Aminu Gwarzo warmly welcomed the Minister and assured him of the state government’s commitment to addressing the outlined requests promptly. He affirmed the Minister’s connection to Kano and pledged to expedite the resolution of the issues raised.
Gwarzo also joined the Minister’s entourage to tour the newly installed facilities at the Hajj camp section of MAKIA, underscoring the collaborative efforts between the federal and state governments to ensure a seamless experience for pilgrims.
Tunde Moshood
SA Media (HM)
