A delegation from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has called for urgent upgrades of critical facilities at Gombe Airport ahead of the 2026 Hajj operations.
The team, led by Engineer Ango-Shehu Mohammed, made the appeal during a courtesy visit to the Secretary to Government of Gombe State, Professor Ibrahim Njodi, on Wednesday.
Speaking during the visit, Mohammed commended the administration of Governor Muhammadu Yahaya for prioritising aviation development in the state, particularly improvements at the Gombe Airport.
He, however, stressed the need for further investment in key safety infrastructure.
“While the administration has done remarkably well in equipping the Gombe Airport with facilities that enhance the safety of aircraft, more energy and resources need to be channelled towards the constant installation and maintenance of aviation lighting systems,” he said.
Mohammed also identified other critical areas requiring attention, including the provision of high-capacity firefighting vehicles and modern navigational equipment to support accurate take-off and landing of aircraft.
“These provisions are necessary and unavoidable for the airport to function optimally, especially as the airlift of the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage draws closer,” he added.
Responding, Njodi explained that the state government’s pace of intervention had earlier slowed due to plans by the Federal Government to take over the airport.
“While we are still awaiting the full takeover by the Federal Government, the state government has recently awarded a contract worth over N600 million for airport fencing and other renovation works,” he said.
The SSG assured the NCAA team of the government’s commitment to addressing identified gaps upon receipt of their report.
“As we await the comprehensive report from your team, be rest assured that government will study it and do the needful for the benefit of our citizens and the Nigerian people at large,” Njodi stated.
He reiterated that the safety of airport users remains a top priority for the state government.
Joshua Danmalam, Information Officer, Gombe SGS office.
