The Federal Government has made a significant announcement that will transform aviation in Nigeria's South-South region. Victor Attah International Airport in Uyo has been officially designated as an international airport, marking a major milestone for Akwa Ibom State and the entire nation's aviation sector.
Minister Keyamo's Official Announcement
Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, made the formal declaration on Tuesday in Abuja. The minister revealed that his decision came after a thorough inspection of the airport's facilities approximately one year ago. According to Keyamo, the state's substantial investment in infrastructure meets and even exceeds global aviation standards.
The Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul facility currently under construction at the airport is 95% complete and is projected to become one of Nigeria's premier aviation maintenance centers. The minister particularly highlighted the impressive 3.6-kilometre runway, which surpasses the length of runways at some existing international airports in the country.
World-Class Facilities and Infrastructure
Keyamo expressed strong confidence in the airport's readiness for international operations. "What the governor met and continued is a hidden gem for this sector," the minister stated during his announcement. "There is no reason why we should not designate Uyo airport as an international airport to process international passengers."
The terminal building has been confirmed as fully equipped to handle international passenger processing. All necessary aviation agencies, including the Nigeria Customs Service, Immigration Service, and NDLEA, will be engaged to ensure a smooth transition to international operations.
Transition Process and Committee Formation
A joint committee comprising officials from the Ministry of Aviation, Akwa Ibom State Government, and all relevant agencies will be established to determine the precise commencement date for international flights. The Permanent Secretary of the ministry will lead this multi-agency team, with each aviation agency deploying required technical personnel to facilitate the transition.
"As from today, we have designated it as an international airport. What is left is to set up a committee including all the agencies to come up with the date for operations to begin," Keyamo explained during the announcement.
State Government's Response and Preparedness
Akwa Ibom State Governor Pastor Umo Eno warmly welcomed the Federal Government's decision, noting that it aligns perfectly with the state's long-term aviation and economic development plans. The governor expressed appreciation for the recognition of the state's consistent investment in world-class aviation infrastructure.
Governor Eno praised Minister Keyamo for his responsiveness to the state's requests and commitment to strengthening the private-sector-driven aviation ecosystem being developed in Akwa Ibom. The state government has diligently built core components of a comprehensive aviation ecosystem, including the MRO facility, runway, terminal, and other essential facilities.
In preparation for the expanded aviation hub, the state has initiated housing projects beginning with 100 units and gradually scaling up. Recently, 1,000 new housing units were flagged off near the airport to accommodate future workforce needs and support aviation-linked development.
The governor assured that Akwa Ibom State stands ready to collaborate with all federal agencies involved in the transition to international operations. Relevant documents and requirements submitted by the state are currently being processed, with optimism that the airport will soon commence its first international flights, potentially including routes to China.
Additionally, Ibom Air is already expanding its capabilities to handle more regional services, positioning the airline and the newly designated international airport for significant growth in the coming months.
