In a significant move to revamp Nigeria’s aviation industry under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, the federal government has upgraded the Muhammadu Buhari Airport in Maiduguri to international status.
The announcement was made by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, during a courtesy visit from Borno State Governor Babagana Umar Zulum in Abuja on Monday.
Keyamo described North East Nigeria, particularly Borno State, as a commercial city that connects Nigeria with other countries. He stated that the airport will begin full international operations on January 1, 2025.
“Establishment of an international airport in Maiduguri is strategic to receive international flights coming in from the Middle East into this country; it has the capacity, it has the size, population and infrastructure to support an international airport,” he said.
The minister noted that the level of wealth in Borno State is yet untapped, asserting that with this development, North Eastern Nigeria is set for economic revival.
Odutayo Oluseyi, the ministry’s Head of Press and Public Affairs, reported that Zulum expressed satisfaction with the new status of the airport, commending President Tinubu, Keyamo, and the entire aviation sector for their “uncommon transformation in the aviation sector.”
Zulum assured the minister that North East governors would provide the political will needed to ensure the smooth operation of the airport.
“The services in the sector have improved; anyone can attest to that. In terms of safety, the sector has experienced development and growth. I have seen efforts the Nigerian government is making for a better aviation industry,” Zulum remarked.
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He further requested that the Nigerian government expedite action to ensure Nigeria has its own air carrier, which would serve the interests of Nigerians.
Keyamo’s announcement of the upgrade comes as part of a broader initiative that includes renaming several airports across the country in honor of prominent Nigerians.
Last year, former President Buhari approved the renaming of airports, including the Akure International Airport after Olumuyiwa Bernard Aliu, and Benin International Airport now named after Oba Akinzua II, among others.
This strategic development aims to enhance the aviation landscape and honor those who have made significant contributions to the country’s progress.
