The Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) says it has the capability to accommodate the return journey of 2023 pilgrims from Saudi Arabia through the Ilorin International Airport without any hitch.
The Manager of the airport, Mr Ogini Olatayo made the disclosure while speaking with journalists in Ilorin, Kwara state.
He said the management of the airport were at the middle of maximizing the use of the airport in addition to the annual Hajj operation being carried out.
Mr Olatayo explained that the airlifting of this year’s intending pilgrims from Ilorin through Lagos to Saudi Arabia was due to misinformation on the part of the operators.
He said arrangements have been concluded to ensure that Hajj operation is restored back fully as expected.
The Airport Manager noted that the airfield lightening, fire cover and other facilities are in good condition to accommodate both day and night operations at the airport.
He expressed worry over what he described as epileptic power supply to the airport by the electricity distribution company.
Mr Olatayo noted that the situation has led to running of the airport more on generator at a very high cost.
He appealed to the management of the electricity distribution company to improve the supply of electricity to the airport to reduce their spending on generators.
ALI MUHAMMAD RABIU
