By Folarin Kehinde

Premium airline, XEJet Limited, has launched direct flight operations between Abuja and Gusau, Zamfara State, marking the first time Gusau International Airport has welcomed passengers.

The inaugural flight, which departed the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, at 2pm on Monday, October 5, 2026, arrived safely at Gusau International Airport, where it was received by state officials, airport management and other dignitaries.

The new service, which will operate twice weekly with an Embraer ERJ-145MP aircraft, establishes a direct air connection between Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory and Zamfara State.

Speaking ahead of the inaugural departure, General Manager of XEJet Express, Hamzat Bukar, said the new route would improve access to Zamfara while promoting tourism, trade and cultural exchange.

Bukar said the service would make air travel more accessible to business travellers, government officials and families, adding that the airline was committed to supporting economic growth in the region.

He said the launch was also part of XEJet’s broader expansion of its domestic and African network.
Receiving the aircraft in Gusau, Managing Director of Gusau International Airport, Kabir Yahaya Gusau, described the arrival as a significant milestone for the airport and Zamfara State.

“Today marks the first time Gusau International Airport has welcomed passengers, and I am delighted to say everything went smoothly,” he said.

He thanked XEJet management for partnering with the airport and providing residents of Zamfara with an alternative and more convenient means of travel.

The commencement of the Abuja–Gusau service is expected to strengthen connectivity between Zamfara and other parts of the country, while creating easier access for commercial, official and personal travel.