Kebbi-Trust Online Newspaper

Revisiting the Success Story of Governor Idris in Transforming Sir. Ahmadu Bello International Airport Birnin Kebbi to an International Standard

The success story of Governor Idris's administration leave no stone unturned; in this edition Kebbi-Trust glimpsed into aviation sector particularly Sir. Ahmadu Bello International Airport Birnin Kebbi (SABIA); special thanks to the Hon. Commissioner of Information and culture Yakubu Ahmed BK who updated us on this development.

According to the Commissioner, upon assuming the governorship of Kebbi State in May 2023, Dr. Nasir Idris ( Kauran Gwandu) was faced with  the challenge of revitalizing a so-called "International" Airport that had long lost its operational status. 

In the first place, Governor Idris must be commended for his foresight in putting a right pet at right hole by appointing a vibrant, experienced, hardworking and dedicated civil servant in the person of Habib Muhammad Sabi Kamba to manage the Airport as General Manager (GM) and also Permanent Secretary.

Governor Idris follow it up with provision of sufficient logistics and sincere political will, this have successfully restored the Sir. Ahmadu Bello International Airport to its rightful place on the map, making it truly “international” in every sense.

GM Habibu Sabi Kamba has played a crucial role in overseeing the Airport's transformation, ensuring that it meets international standards and provides excellent services to passengers in line with Governor Idris's directive; hence his nickname ' Silent Achiever'. Habib achieved a lot but for reason best known to him, he doesn't want publicity. But Kebbi-Trust resolved to forcefully publicized him so that other heads of MDAs can emulate him for collective development of Kebbi State.

 What were the problems and how it was solved by Governor Idris?;

 Hon. Commissioner of Information and culture answered: 

"Two problems had therefore made it inoperative. One was having airlines willing to operate the route and secondly using the Airport to airlift Pilgrims.

"Recognizing the detrimental impact on Kebbi's reputation as a thriving state in Nigeria, Governor Idris promptly took action to rectify this glaring issue. 

"His proactive approach involved reaching out to some airlines and forging agreements that spurred a return to domestic flight operations, ultimately marking the beginning of a new chapter for the airport.

"Understanding the critical need for a fully operational fuel facility, Idris prioritized the development of a Jet-A Fuel Dump at the airport. His determination led to the rapid construction of a fuel dump at the Airport - an essential infrastructure, which boasts a capacity exceeding 180,000 liters. 

"The results were immediate and significant: international airlines began to flock to Kebbi willing to be part of the the Hajj airlift, transforming the airport from an unrecognized terminal to a hub of global aviation where flights now land not just for pilgrims, but also for refueling from various international destinations. 

"It is on record that aircrafts on international routes land at the airport for the sole purpose of refueling and moving on.

The last last Hajj Airlift took place there and the upcoming one, just months away is primed to take place there as well" said Yakubu Ahmed BK (Mai bindiga)

In addition to the runway extension, the airport has also undergone renovations, including the construction of a new terminal building and ramp . These upgrades have enhanced the airport's capacity to provide efficient and comfortable services to passengers.

The airport's transformation has also been marked by improvements in safety and security. For instance, the installation of an Instrument Landing System (ILS) Localizer and Glideslope has enhanced the airport's navigational aids, ensuring safer landings and takeoffs.

Hon. Commissioner of Information summarized the development recorded so far ; "He (Gov. Idris) met the Sir Ahmadu Bello International Airport in disuse almost, but his decisive leadership and ability to identify and resolve key issues have successfully restored the Sir Ahmadu Bello International Airport to its rightful place on the map, making it truly “international” in every sense.

Thanks to His Excellency Dr. Nasir Idris (Kauran Gwandu) for this giant stride, couple with concerted efforts of the Airport's management under the able leadership of General Manager, Permanent Secretary Habib Muhammad Sabi Kamba  (The first and only Sa'in Dandi )

___________________

Ahmed Umar 

Publisher Kebbi-Trust Online Newspaper 

ahmadugamji@gmail.com 

07038182929