No-Fly Zone Status Remains as Zamfara Invests in New Airport Development

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, initiated the construction of Gusau International Airport in Zamfara on Thursday. During the ceremony held at the construction site in Gusau, Keyamo committed to supporting the state’s efforts to complete the project within the planned 30-month period. He emphasized that the airport, undertaken by the Zamfara government, would significantly boost the state’s economic development by creating jobs for the youth.

Keyamo underscored the importance of the international airport project for revitalizing economic activities in the North West region. He praised Governor Dauda Lawal for launching the initiative, highlighting its potential to drive Zamfara’s economy forward.

The minister also mentioned that the federal government might reconsider the no-fly zone status imposed by the Bello Matawalle administration in 2022 due to severe insecurity issues. The lifting of this restriction would be contingent on the improved security situation in the state.

Governor Dauda Lawal assured that the state government is committed to ensuring the project’s completion within the stipulated 30-month timeframe. He confirmed that funds for the project had been allocated to ensure its timely execution.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that the project, awarded to Triacta Nigeria Limited, would cost ₦62 billion. The airport will feature state-of-the-art facilities, including a 3.4-kilometre primary runway capable of accommodating commercial aircraft. Additional features include a modern terminal building with passenger amenities, check-in counters, a waiting area, and a Customs and Immigration services building. The airport will also have an aircraft control tower, a maintenance hangar, a firefighting and rescue station, and access roads, among other facilities.

Despite the ongoing construction of the new airport, Zamfara remains under a no-fly zone, highlighting the juxtaposition of developmental efforts against ongoing security challenges.