The Sokoto State Government has raised serious safety concerns about the poor lighting system at Sultan Abubakar III International Airport.

The government warns that this problem has caused aircraft to divert to nearby states during night operations.

Governor Ahmed Aliyu has called on the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development to quickly repair and upgrade the airport lighting system.

The governor made this appeal during a courtesy visit to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.

The meeting took place at the minister's office in Abuja on Wednesday.

Aliyu warns that the bad lighting infrastructure poses major operational and safety challenges.

This is especially true for aircraft trying to land or take off at night.

Pilots rely on runway lights and navigation tools to see clearly and maneuver safely during low visibility conditions.

According to the governor, the lack of adequate lighting has already forced several aircraft.

These planes were supposed to land in Sokoto during evening hours.

They had to divert to Sir Ahmadu Bello International Airport in Birnin Kebbi for safety reasons.

The governor notes that the situation disrupts flight schedules.

It also exposes passengers to unnecessary difficulties.

Additionally, it puts pilots at potential operational risk when flying in low visibility.

"We are seriously worried about the absence of a reliable lighting system at Sultan Abubakar III International Airport," Aliyu stated.

He said this is especially concerning as preparations intensify for the 2026 Hajj operations.

Aliyu explained that most Hajj flights usually depart during late evening or night hours.

He stressed that failing to fix the lighting system could seriously affect the smooth airlift of pilgrims from the state.

"The inability of airlines to operate at night has denied the state significant aviation opportunities," the governor added.

He warned that if the situation continues, it will complicate logistics for Hajj operations and other scheduled flights.

However, Aliyu praised the minister for initiatives aimed at repositioning Nigeria's aviation sector.

These initiatives also aim to improve airport infrastructure across the country.

In response, Keyamo assured the Sokoto governor that the ministry would quickly address the lighting challenges.

The minister wants to ensure the airport meets operational safety standards for both day and night flights.

Keyamo also acknowledged the Sokoto State Government's investments in airport infrastructure.

He noted that these investments have significantly improved the airport's operational outlook.

Among the projects executed by the state government is the construction of the airport access road.

Other projects include establishing a modern Hajj terminal and beautifying the airport corridor.

The state is also constructing a VIP lounge.

Keyamo thanked the governor for his commitment to improving aviation facilities in the state.

The minister reiterated the federal government's resolve to strengthen airport operations nationwide.

Governor Aliyu was accompanied on the visit by the Secretary to the State Government, Muhammad Sifawa.

Also present was the Chief of Staff, Government House Sokoto, Aminu Dikko.

Others at the meeting included the Permanent Secretary of the Aviation Ministry, Mahmoud Kambari.

The Managing Director of the Nigeria Airspace Management Agency, Engineer Faruk Ahmed, was also present.

Sokoto governor raises alarm over poor runway lighting at Sultan airport

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