By Sade Williams
In his efforts towards ensuring successful Hajj operations in 2024, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has solicited support from the Kano State Government for a dedicated power line to the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport to enhance the airport’s power supply and improve the cooling system.
He was accompanied by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Aviation, Dr. Emmanuel Meribole, the Managing Director/Chief Executive of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, and directors from both the Ministry and FAAN, for a courtesy visit to the Executive Governor of Kano State, Abba Kabir Yusuf.
A statement by Obiageli Orah, FAAN’S spokesperson, noted that the Governor was unavoidably absent but was ably represented by his Deputy, Alhaji Aminu Abdulssalam Gwarzo. During the visit, the Minister, together with the Deputy Governor, the Permanent Secretary, the MD/CE of FAAN, and directors from the industry, undertook a facility tour of the airport, which includes the Hajj and cargo terminals.
He outlined his plans to ensure all States are ready for Hajj operations this year.
He also pledged his unwavering support to FAAN to ensure seamless operations, with plans to collaborate with the state government to ensure a successful pilgrimage.
The Deputy Governor responded by assuring the Minister and his team that the State Government would work diligently to ensure that the request would be swiftly addressed.
In another noteworthy development, Runway 18L has been reopened after an NG Eagle XEjet with the registration number 5N-BZZ, en route from Abuja to Lagos, landed and skidded off the runway.
Meanwhile, in another statement signed by Tunde Moshood, special assistant, media and communications to the minister, Keyamo also brought attention to properties belonging to Skypower that have been under dispute, seeking the state government’s intervention to resolve the matter amicably.
In response, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s deputy 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.
Subsequently, the deputy governor 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.
He noted that Keyamo 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.
