A’Ibom airport upgrade will boost trade, tourism – Eno

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has highlighted several socio-economic benefits that will accrue to the state following the recent approval of international status for the Victor Attah International Airport, Uyo by the Federal Government, saying the upgrade will enhance trade and boost tourism.

The Federal Government, on Thursday, officially approved the airport for full international flight operations.

The approval was secured during a meeting between the governor and the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.

Victor Attah International Airport, located in Uyo, serves as the main air gateway for Akwa Ibom State.

The airport was originally inaugurated in 2009 and has since functioned primarily as a domestic airport, handling flights to major Nigerian cities.

Speaking while fielding questions from journalists on arrival at the airport on Thursday, Eno disclosed that with the latest approval, the airport will commence full international flight operations no later than the first quarter of 2026.

He said, “For this region, trade will be enhanced. Tourism will be boosted. Jobs will be created. The international airport will be busy. Flights will land directly here. There will be a whole lot of economic activities for the good of our people and our State.”

He added, “Our airline, Ibom Air, stands favourably to expand its operations, and partner with other international airlines to choose here as part of their business routes in Nigeria.

“This is all that we have been trying to do – creating that aviation ecosystem. I don’t believe in talking too much but working behind the scenes to achieve results.”

The governor explained that the achievement in the state’s aviation sector is one of the reasons Akwa Ibom needed to align with the centre to enhance collaboration and attract developmental opportunities of this magnitude.

“You know how long we have been pursuing this status for our airport. But, by the grace of God, all of this is coming together for our good,” he said.

On November 27, 2025, the Federal Government of Nigeria officially approved the airport for full international flight operations.

With this new status, the airport is now authorised to receive and process international airlines, operate cross-border flights, and serve as a direct gateway linking Akwa Ibom and the rest of the world.

culled from punch