Governor Dauda Lawal hailed the inaugural Hajj flight from the newly built Gusau International Airport on Friday, calling it a historic milestone for Zamfara State. The flight, operated by Max Air under the designation NGL270, departed with 415 pilgrims bound for the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia. The group comprised 288 men and 127 women, all travelling directly from Gusau for the first time.
The launch was announced by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, who confirmed that the aircraft left the runway after a brief ceremony attended by state officials and community leaders. Governor Lawal used the occasion to underline the strategic importance of the airport, which was inaugurated in June 2024 after a rapid construction phase.
“Today our pilgrims are boarding a plane in Gusau and heading straight to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia,” Lawal said during the take‑off ceremony. “For years they had to make long road trips to Kano or Sokoto before they could fly for Hajj. This is a tangible improvement in comfort and convenience for our people.”
The governor noted that the new route shortens travel time to less than four hours, a significant reduction from the several days previously required to reach an international departure point. He acknowledged scepticism that such a service could be realised, but affirmed that the project fulfills a core promise of his administration.
Lawal also described the airport as a “legacy project” that will stimulate economic activity and enhance connectivity across Zamfara. He indicated that discussions are already underway with additional airlines to commence regular commercial flights from the facility, expanding its role beyond the seasonal pilgrimage.
“Words cannot fully express my happiness; this is a historic milestone and a fulfillment of our commitments,” the governor added. He thanked residents for their prayers and confidence, urging the pilgrims to pray for peace, progress and stability in Zamfara and Nigeria while performing their rites.
The commencement of Hajj operations from Gusau International Airport marks the first international airlift from the venue since construction began. The development is expected to alleviate the logistical burden on Zamfara’s Muslim community, which previously relied on overland journeys to neighbouring states’ airports. By providing a direct gateway to Saudi Arabia, the airport is poised to reshape travel patterns and contribute to broader socio‑economic growth in the region.
As the inaugural flight lands in Saudi Arabia, state officials will monitor its performance and the emerging demand for air services. The success of this venture could pave the way for expanded flight schedules, cargo operations and heightened tourism, positioning Gusau as a new hub in Nigeria’s northern aviation network.
