The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, has concluded an inspection round of the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA) in preparation for the 2024 Hajj pilgrimage.
The minister assessed the airport’s readiness to cater to the needs of pilgrims during this sacred journey by inspecting the newly installed facilities.
Accompanied by officials, including the permanent secretary of the Ministry of Aviation, Dr. Emmanuel Meribole; the managing director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Olubunmi Kuku and other directors of FAAN, the minister also paid a courtesy visit to the Kano State governor, Abba Yusuf, who was represented by his deputy, Comrade Aminu Gwarzo.
During the visit, Keyamo expressed his fondness for Kano, stating that “Kano is always home for me.” He outlined three critical requests aimed at enhancing the efficiency and functionality of MAKIA, including facilitating the installation of a dedicated powerline at the airport to address persistent issues of low power outage, acquiring two additional generating plants to supplement electricity supply at the airport and seeking the state government’s intervention to resolve the matter amicably regarding the properties belonging to Skypower that have been under dispute.
In response, the deputy governor welcomed the minister and assured him of the state government’s commitment to addressing the outlined requests promptly. 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.
The minister 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.
