After 30 Years, Zamfara Sees Its First International Flight

By Editor Drealomalicha Emmanuella

Zamfara state Governor Dauda Lawal witnessed a historic moment on Sunday, 22 March 2026, as Zamfara State celebrated the landing of the maiden flight at Gusau International Airport, more than three decades after the state’s creation.

According to a statement from the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, the Bombardier Challenger 605 aircraft, operated by the Federal Government of Nigeria, touched down at precisely 4:30 p.m. in a one-off test flight designed to assess the airport’s readiness for VIP movements scheduled next week.

Governor Lawal described the event as “a historic day in the history of Zamfara State,” noting the significance of the aircraft, registered as 5N-FGZ, in marking the state’s entry into the aviation landscape.

The flight was conducted in full compliance with the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig. CARs) Part 12.1.4.1(c). Prior to the operation, the state government obtained approval from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), which granted a one-off ‘No Technical Objection’ (NTO) for the landing. The test was carried out under Visual Flight Rules (VFR), restricted strictly to daylight hours.

Governor Lawal highlighted the airport’s expected role in boosting accessibility to Zamfara, particularly for investors. He pointed out that the arduous seven-hour journey from Abuja by road has often deterred potential investors from exploring opportunities in the state.

“The completion of Gusau International Airport represents a major step forward for our administration and for the people of Zamfara,” Governor Lawal said, adding that the airport is expected to be fully operational within the next four months.

The successful test flight not only signals the state’s readiness to welcome VIP flights but also promises to enhance economic activity and open new avenues for investment in Zamfara.