Zamfara Turns 30 and Finally Has an Airport

On 1 October 1996, Zamfara State was created from the old Sokoto State by the late General Sani Abacha. This was done through a tough process.

Out of 72 requests for new states, 2,369 for local governments, and 286 for boundary changes, Zamfara was created along with five other states, one from each of the six geopolitical zones. People in these states celebrated this new identity. Finally, they had their own capital and control over their future.

But over the years, Zamfara was left behind. While other states were moving forward, Zamfara had no airport or airstrip. It was the only state in the North-West and among the six created in 1996 without air travel options.

Traveling to Zamfara was not easy. Regardless of your status, you faced many challenges. A seven-hour drive from Abuja was rough. The roads were bad, and every journey came with anxiety.

Now, things are different. After 30 years, Zamfara has taken a big step forward. Thanks to Governor Dauda Lawal, the state’s 5th civilian Governor, Zamfara now has an airport. He built the Gusau International Airport from scratch in less than three years while also focusing on education and healthcare.

Zamfara now boasts an international-standard cargo and passenger airport. Commercial flights started on 1 October 2026, just in time for the state’s 30th anniversary. What a great way to celebrate!

I want to make something clear. Celebrating this achievement does not mean I am looking down on those who can’t afford air tickets. The last time I traveled by air was when I fell from a mango tree at 12 years old. But I won’t share how that ended! Lol.

Seriously, whether you can afford a ticket or not, the Gusau International Airport is for everyone. Just like you do not need to own a truck to enjoy good roads, you do not need to fly to benefit from an airport. This airport will bring development to your community, maybe even food to your table.

First, having an airport is not just about pride. It opens Zamfara to investors and creates job opportunities. This will lower unemployment and boost the state’s revenue.

Zamfara has rich mineral resources and contributes significantly to Nigeria’s agriculture. With investors able to fly in quickly, they can buy millet, sorghum, maize, and beans directly from farmers, cutting out middlemen.

High-value farm produce, processed gold, and livestock can reach international markets faster. This means more money for farmers and miners, which can be used to build schools and health centers. Airport activities will bring growth and food to even the most remote areas.

Moreover, the airport will help in transporting security forces and emergency supplies. This can greatly assist in tackling ongoing security issues.

One big problem Zamfara faced was keeping specialists like doctors. Many did not want to work there due to access and pay. Governor Lawal has changed that. Zamfara now pays its doctors more than the Federal Government does. This better pay and easier access will attract more specialists to serve the people.

This is why the Gusau International Cargo Airport is a true breakthrough. It is the start of Zamfara’s development journey.

At 30, Zamfara is finally in the sky. Alhamdulillah, and happy anniversary!