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.

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