After 30 years, Zamfara finally receives first aircraft

Zamfara State has taken a significant step towards improving its transport links after an aircraft successfully touched down at Gusau International Airport for the first time since the state was created more than three decades ago.

Governor Dauda Lawal was present on Sunday to observe the development, which officials described as a landmark moment for the state’s aviation ambitions. The test landing, carried out by the Federal Government, is seen as a precursor to planned high-profile movements in the coming days.

According to a statement issued by the governor’s spokesman, Sulaiman Bala Idris, the aircraft arrived at approximately 4:30 p.m. as part of a one-off operational assessment.

The plane involved, a Bombardier Challenger 605 with registration 5N-FGZ, was deployed to evaluate the airport’s readiness ahead of scheduled VIP flights next week.

Reflecting on the development, Lawal said: “Today will remain a historic day in the history of Zamfara State as Governor Lawal witnessed the landing of the maiden flight at the Gusau International Airport.

“The aircraft with registration 5N-FGZ performed a one-off test to assess the airport’s capability for VIP movements scheduled next week.”

Authorities noted that the flight adhered strictly to regulatory requirements. Approval had earlier been secured from the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, which granted a one-time “No Technical Objection” to permit the landing.

The operation was conducted under Visual Flight Rules, restricting activity to daylight hours between sunrise and sunset.

Officials believe the successful test strengthens confidence in the airport project, which has been a key part of the current administration’s infrastructure drive.