The Yobe State Government has intensified preparations for the 2026 Hajj operations with the signing of a final Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) to enable the airlifting of pilgrims from the Muhammadu Buhari International Cargo Airport, Damaturu.
The agreement, signed on Monday in Abuja, completes the required institutional engagements with key federal aviation agencies and clears a major hurdle toward full certification of the airport for international passenger operations. Prior to this, the state government had executed similar MoUs with the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA).
With the NiMet agreement, the Damaturu airport is now aligned with the regulatory and operational framework of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), covering aerodrome management, air navigation services, and aviation meteorological services.
The MoU was signed on behalf of the Yobe State Government by the Commissioner for Transport and Energy, Hon. Muhammad Muhammed Bara, alongside the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr. Mustapha Abba Geidam, FCVSN. They were received by the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of NiMet, Professor Charles Anosike.
Senior NiMet officials present at the ceremony included the Director of Weather Forecast, Professor Vincent; Director of Engineering Services, Engr. Abdulkareem; General Manager (Commercial), Abdullateef; and the Director of Legal Services.
According to the state government, all critical institutional, technical, and safety requirements for airport certification have been substantially addressed. The Aerodrome Manual and other operational documents have been completed in line with regulatory standards, while engagements with the NCAA are ongoing to facilitate inspection, validation, and final approval.
The government said the progress reflects its commitment to delivering a fully functional international cargo and passenger airport capable of supporting scheduled commercial flights and special operations such as Hajj and Umrah airlifts.
The development, officials noted, aligns with the development agenda of Governor Mai Mala Buni, aimed at positioning Yobe State as a strategic aviation, logistics, and economic hub in the North-East.
The state reaffirmed its readiness to commence Hajj operations from the Damaturu airport by the 2026 Hajj season, adding that current efforts are focused on securing final NCAA certification, strengthening the capacity of airport personnel, and sustaining coordination with the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and other stakeholders.
