Gov. Lawal Makes History as First Hajj Flight Departs Gusau International Airport

The Zamfara State Government has recorded a major milestone following the successful departure of the first-ever Hajj flight from Gusau International Airport.

The inaugural flight, which departed on Friday according to the Governor’s Spokesman, Sulaiman Bala Idris, conveyed 415 intending pilgrims from Zamfara State to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia aboard a Max Air aircraft with flight number NGL270.

According to official figures, the pilgrims comprised 288 men and 127 women.

Speaking during the inaugural airlift, Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal described the event as a historic achievement and a fulfilment of one of his administration’s key promises.

Governor Lawal expressed delight that pilgrims from the state would now travel directly from Gusau instead of making long road journeys to Kano or Sokoto before boarding flights for Hajj.

He noted that the airport project began on June 18, 2024, and described it as a legacy infrastructure project designed to improve transportation and economic opportunities in the state.

The governor also disclosed that discussions were already ongoing with airlines to commence commercial flight operations from the airport in the near future.

He urged the intending pilgrims to pray for Zamfara State and Nigeria during their stay in Saudi Arabia and wished them a successful pilgrimage.