Governor Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso of Kano state has again appealed to the Federal Ministry of Aviation to approve for certain airlines that have indicated interest to operate from Malam Aminu Kano International Airport, MAKIA to start operations soon.
Governor Kwankwaso explained that the operations of more airlines from MAKIA will strengthen the position of Kano as the commercial hub of Northern Nigeria and a strategic trade route in West Africa.
The governor, who made the call while receiving the General Manager, Kano office, Turkish Airlines, Mr. Ahmet Can Akbuga, in his office, pointed out about five airlines have shown desire to operate from MAKIA but are yet to obtain approval from the Federal Government.
According to him, it is the responsibility of the Federal Government to ensure a result-oriented aviation sector by providing enabling environment for airline operators to work well, arguing that MAKIA, as the premier airport in the country must be made functional and vibrant.
While describing the arrival of Turkish Airline in Kano as a welcome development, he appealed to the all stakeholders in the aviation sector to cooperate with the airline to enable it serve the people well.
The governor promised that his administration will continue to support MAKIA to serve efficiently adding that recently, the government procured and installed scanners worth millions of Naira at the airport to enhance its services.
He therefore appealed to people from Kano and other parts of the country to patronize the airport as efforts are being made to restore its fading glory.
Earlier, the General Manager, Kano office, Turkish Airlines, Mr. Ahmet Can Akbuga, said the airline will commence operations from MAKIA in December, 2013adding that it has planned four flights per week from Kano.
Mr. Akbuga therefore sought the cooperation of the state government and aviation agencies in the country to ensure smooth flow of his airlines’ operations.