By Muhammad Umar Faruk
Brigadier Zakari Maimalari International Airport formerly Gombe Airport Lawanti is an international airport that serves Gombe, the capital of Gombe State, Nigeria.
Former President Muhammadu Buhari had approved the renaming of no fewer than 15 airports before the expiration of his tenure on May 29, 2023.
Gombe Lawanti International Airport got its name because of its proximity to Lawanti a small village in Gombe State, Nigeria, with the coordinates of 10°17′56″N 10°54′00″E / 10.29889°N 10.90000°E
It has since its inception been a fantastic edifice which has been doing super well, among it pears in the northeastern nigerian region. Of recent, it has achieved tremendous recommendations on online platforms. Following the recent convocation held at the Gombe State University, the airline sector hosted an outrageous number of aeroplanes both commercial and private.
The airport sector is witnessing a provocative increase in growth. With an increase in rating of 3.0 star to 3.4 stars (which is far above average) online, on international standard with fly emirates and other international airports within 2 months in relation to its customer satisfaction and as interpersonal relations, domestic and international travels.
Rapid improvements have been noticed as it has been a major topic of discussion on social media platform because of its access to security, good road network, adequate hospitality and reception.This has yielded an increase in patronage and other circular activities within the space.
The head of the institution Engineer Muhammad Dauda Abubakar, a young vibrant youth whom has had the opportunity to serve in Monitoring, and Evaluations Committee in Governor Inuwa Yahaya-led administration before becoming the Sole Administrator and now the Director-General of the Airport revealed that his success and achievement in that sector is in line with Gov Inuwa Yahaya.
“The governor’s youth inclusion in his administration, governance and policy making. Young people are now witnessing a good number of youth-led administrators with responsibilities in the state,” he added.
He attributed the success of his team to Governor Yahaya for giving them the nurturing ground and a better avenue to grow. The improvements in the airport include a good security structure. Proper management standard, internally generated revenue systems, staff who adhere to task, an amazing high-spirited team work.
Some analysts say Gombe International Airport has surpassed the basic standard for international air space. One can chatter a flight directly from Saudi Arabia or anywhere in the world and land directly in Gombe
A staff of the institution, Aisha Muhammad said due to its proximity, road network, accessibility to proper accommodation, and also accessibility to the staff.
The officials and management of the organisation added the administration is very friendly, and motivating
she added, “The Airport offers standard VIP and executive services that the all types of aeroplanes and jets offer on a global standard.
It has a well ventilated and conducive waiting hall, a fantastic VIP lounge which is of very wonderful ambience, varieties of tea is given to passengers, and they enjoy a very nice airport bus services. All at an amazing fair rate of 3,500 Naira only.
The Director-General suggested that there might still be room for improvement especially as Gombe International Airport has a wonderful active Airline mobile and online service for bookings, and reservations.
Muhammad Umar Faruk, is a development journalist, entrepreneur and good governance analyst. He sent this piece from Gombe State, Nigeria.
