May 30, (THEWILL) – The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, on Tuesday, commissioned the Sultan Abubakar International Airport, Sokoto Hajj Terminal.
Keyamo also flagged off the commencement of Sokoto State’s 2024 Hajj operation and renamed the new Hajj terminal after Senator Aliyu Wamakko.
The commissioning ceremony was graced by an array of distinguished guests, including the Governor of Sokoto State, Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto; his Deputy, Idris Mohammad Gobir, and the Senator representing Sokoto North District, Aliyu Wamakko.
Also in attendance at the auspicious occasion were the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammed Sa’ad Abubakar III; Minister of State for Water Resources, Bello Goronyo, 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.”
Keyamo reaffirmed the government’s dedication to continuous improvement in the aviation sector, promising more developments to come.
Speaking, Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State commended the Federal Government and the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development for their dedication to improving aviation infrastructure in the region.
“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,” he stated.
The renaming of the terminal to Senator Aliyu Wamakko Hajj Terminal was the highlight of the event, honouring the significant contributions of Wamakko to the development of Sokoto State and the aviation sector.
The Senator expressed his gratitude, saying, “This recognition is a profound honour. I am deeply committed to the continued progress of our state and our nation.”
On his part, the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammed Sa’ad Abubakar III, lauded the efforts of all stakeholders involved in the project and emphasised the importance of such initiatives in fostering national unity and development.
“This terminal stands as a symbol of our collective effort towards achieving greater heights in our national development,” he stated.
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.
