Nigeria: Keyamo commissions new hajj terminal in Sokoto

Nigeria: Keyamo commissions new hajj terminal in Sokoto
Nigeria's Minister for Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (middle) alongside the Executive Governor of Sokoto State, Ahmed Aliyu and other dignitaries during the commissioning of the new hajj terminal in Sokoto

The Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo has marked a significant milestone in aviation infrastructure development with the commissioning of the Sultan Abubakar International Airport’s new Hajj Terminal. 

The event also celebrated the commencement of the 2024 first flight Hajj operation in Sokoto State and the renaming of the terminal to Sen. Aliyu Wamakko Hajj Terminal.

In his keynote address during the inauguration ceremony, as conveyed by Tunde Moshood, SA Media and Communications to the Minister for Aviation and Aerospace Development, Keyamo highlighted the significance of the new 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 honor. I am deeply committed to the continued progress of our state and our nation.”

The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammed Saad Abubakar III, praised 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.”

Minister Keyamo reaffirmed the government’s dedication to continuous improvement in the aviation sector, promising more developments to come. 

He said the new terminal is expected to significantly enhance the experience for Hajj pilgrims and improve the overall efficiency and capacity of Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure.

The commissioning ceremony was attended by a host of distinguished guests, including His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Sokoto State, Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto, FCNA PhD, the Deputy Governor, Idris Mohammad Gobir, and Senator Aliyu Wamakko. 

Also present were the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammed Saad Abubakar III, the Honourable Minister of State for Water Resources, Bello Mohammed G, and the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Olubunmi Kuku.

Tersoo Agber

Journalist, Travel enthusiast, PR consultant, Content manager/editor, Online publisher.