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The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that the Sokoto State Hajj Airport becomes fully operational ahead of the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, gave the assurance on Monday in Abuja during a courtesy visit by the Governor of Sokoto State, Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto.
Keyamo stressed the strategic importance of Sokoto as a major hub for Hajj operations in Nigeria, stating that all relevant aviation agencies would be mobilized to ensure the airport meets the requirements for full operations.
He directed key officials, including the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mahmud Adam Kambari; the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, Olubunmi Kuku; and the Managing Director of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency, Farouk Ahmed, to urgently collaborate with Sokoto State officials to identify and resolve any bottlenecks delaying the project.
Earlier, Governor Aliyu commended the minister and the ministry for their continued support, revealing that the airport project—fully funded by the Sokoto State Government—has reached about 90 percent completion.
He also disclosed that arrangements have been finalized for the acquisition of five aircraft, expected within the next two to three weeks, to facilitate the commencement of operations.
The governor appealed for expedited approvals to enable the airport to begin operations in time to airlift pilgrims directly from Sokoto for the 2026 Hajj.
The Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development said the move aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, aimed at strengthening aviation infrastructure nationwide.