Zamfara State recorded a major aviation breakthrough on Sunday as Governor Dauda Lawal observed the first-ever aircraft landing at the newly built Gusau International Airport, marking the state’s debut into air travel infrastructure more than three decades after its establishment.
In a statement released by his media aide, Sulaiman Bala Idris, the governor confirmed that the demonstration flight, arranged by the Federal Government, touched down at approximately 4:30 p.m.
The aircraft, a Bombardier Challenger 605 with registration 5N-FGZ, carried out a special evaluation exercise designed to verify the airport’s capacity to handle high-profile passenger operations expected in the coming days.
Governor Lawal described the moment as a defining chapter for the state, noting that the successful landing signaled the end of years without an operational airport.
According to the statement, aviation authorities approved the flight after the state government formally sought clearance from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, which issued a one-time “No Technical Objection” permitting the landing.
Officials explained that the operation complied fully with national aviation safety rules and was conducted under Visual Flight Rules, meaning the aircraft operated strictly during daylight hours between sunrise and sunset.
The government emphasized that the successful trial run strengthens confidence in the airport project and highlights progress under the current administration, especially given Zamfara’s long-standing lack of air transport facilities.
Earlier in April 2025, Governor Lawal had announced that construction of the airport was nearing completion and projected that it would become fully operational within months.
He stressed that improved air access is critical for the state’s economic growth, pointing out that the long and often dangerous road journey from Abuja, lasting up to seven hours, has historically discouraged investors and visitors from traveling to Zamfara.
The new airport is expected to significantly ease travel constraints and open the state to business opportunities, tourism, and government activities.
