May 12, (THEWILL) – The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, at the weekend, led a delegation to the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA) for a comprehensive inspection of recently installed facilities aimed at enhancing the experience of pilgrims embarking on the 2024 Hajj pilgrimage.
Accompanied by esteemed 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 FAAN topflight directors, the Minister assessed the readiness of the airport to cater to the needs of pilgrims during the Hajj.
Also in the Minister’s entourage was the Senator representing Kano South Senatorial District, Abdulrahman Kawu Sumaila, and other dignitaries.
Before the facility inspection, the Minister paid a courtesy visit to the Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, who was represented by his Deputy, Aminu Abdulsalamu Gwarzo.
During the meeting, the Aviation Minister expressed his fondness for Kano, stating that “Kano is always home for me,” a sentiment warmly received and applauded by all present.
Addressing the State Government, the Minister outlined three critical requests aimed at enhancing the efficiency and functionality of MAKIA. 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, ensuring uninterrupted operations for pilgrims and travellers alike.
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.
Responding, the Deputy Governor, who warmly welcomed the Minister, assured him of the State Government’s commitment to address the outlined requests promptly. He affirmed the Minister’s connection to Kano and pledged to expedite the resolution of the issues raised.
Subsequently, he joined the Minister’s entourage for a comprehensive tour of 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.
The Minister expressed gratitude for the hospitality and support extended by the Kano State Government and reiterated the Ministry’s dedication to enhancing aviation infrastructure across Nigeria.
Anthony Awunor, is a business correspondent who holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Linguistics (UNILAG). He is also an alumnus of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria Kaduna State. He lives in Lagos.
