The Federal Government has officially granted Uyo Airport (Victor Attah International Airport) international status, allowing it to receive and process international passengers.

The announcement was made by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, during a visit to Uyo where he hosted Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State.

The minister confirmed that the airport possesses the necessary modern facilities, including a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility and a runway exceeding three kilometres, capable of accommodating larger aircraft.

“With these facilities in place, there is no reason why Uyo Airport should not operate internationally,” Keyamo said. “We are assembling a joint team of government agencies, including Customs, NiMet, FAAN, NCAA, to oversee the transition from local to international operations.”

The minister added that the next step is to tick all regulatory boxes and set a date for full international operations to begin.

Government Plans and Infrastructure Development

Responding to the announcement, Governor Umo Eno expressed gratitude and highlighted state plans to complement the airport’s international upgrade. He said the government would build a cargo terminal and residential facilities for airport staff, creating a full ecosystem around the airport.

“Our target is that by the end of the first quarter of 2026, the first international flight will take off from Uyo,” Eno stated.

Airport Background

The Victor Attah International Airport, formerly known as Akwa Ibom International Airport, is situated near Uyo, the state capital. Opened in 2009 and renamed in 2018 to honor former Governor Obong Victor Attah, the airport has been expanded to accommodate larger aircraft and functions as a regional hub.

With the new international status, Uyo Airport is expected to boost tourism, trade, and connectivity for Akwa Ibom State and the broader Niger Delta region.

The post FG Grants Uyo Airport Full International Status, Eyes Global Operations appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

Kogi State’s Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, announced the approval, which was confirmed in an official letter from the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, dated October 9, 2024. Fanwo emphasized that Governor Usman Ododo’s administration is committed to completing the project efficiently, adhering to all regulatory standards, and positioning Kogi as a strategic aviation hub.

Fanwo highlighted the importance of the new airport, noting that it would benefit not only Kogi State but also serve as a regional hub for ten surrounding states. The project is also expected to reduce congestion on the Lokoja-Abuja road and ease pressure on the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.

“This airport is a top priority for the Ododo administration,” Fanwo stated. “Kogi’s strategic central location makes it an ideal center for the aviation market in Nigeria, bringing economic benefits and global visibility to the state.”

The airport is set to enhance economic opportunities for Kogi, creating jobs and attracting business investments. The project includes plans for a cargo facility, further establishing the airport as a key player in regional trade and commerce.

Fanwo expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Minister of Aviation for their support of the project. “The approval reflects a historic commitment to the development of Kogi State, positioning the airport to drive growth in both passenger and cargo services,” he added.

Zariagi, already home to an airstrip, has been deemed a suitable location for the project by experts from the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, who are satisfied with the Kogi State Government’s plans.

The post Federal Government Approves Kogi’s International Airport in Zariagi appeared first on Housing TV Africa.