Maiduguri Airport Set for International Operations from January 2025
Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, visited Maiduguri on Thursday for a strategic review of the General Muhammadu Buhari International Airport’s upgrade, setting the stage for its full international operations from January 1, 2025.
The Minister’s visit was supported by key officials from prominent aviation agencies, including the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Olubunmi Kuku; the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), represented by Engr. Farouk Umar; the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), represented by Capt. Chris Najomo’s delegate Engr. Balang; and the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet).
Tunde Moshood, Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the Minister, disclosed that upon arrival, the Minister and his delegation were warmly welcomed by the Executive Governor of Borno State, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, and a host of other stakeholders, including senior representatives from Customs, DSS, Immigration, NDLEA, and other critical agencies.
Governor Zulum commended the Federal Government’s commitment to advancing aviation infrastructure, expressing his gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing Keyamo and acknowledging the Minister’s impactful leadership in driving the sector forward.
The visit centred on advancing the North East’s connectivity and positioning Maiduguri as a pivotal hub in international air travel and cargo transport.
Speaking at the gathering, Minister Keyamo highlighted the importance of this development for regional growth and national unity.
“This project is not only a milestone for Nigeria but a testament to the resilience and promise of the North East. The General Muhammadu Buhari International Airport is set to become the first fully operational international airport in the region, equipped with world-class facilities and a state-of-the-art runway,” he stated.
The airport, which will serve as a key cargo hub, is poised to revitalise the economy of the North East Zone and beyond, enhancing regional trade, creating jobs, and boosting local industries.
In his address, Governor Zulum assured the Minister of Borno State’s unwavering support, affirming the state government’s commitment to ensuring the successful inauguration of international operations at the airport by the set date.
The discussions delved into the logistics needed for a seamless transition to international operations.
The dialogue also served to strengthen federal-state collaboration, reflecting the Federal Government’s focus on regional growth and national cohesion through enhanced infrastructure.
This high-level visit by Minister Keyamo and key aviation leaders further underscores the Federal Government’s dedication to modernising Nigeria’s aviation landscape, ensuring accessibility, and empowering regions across the country.
As the countdown to January 2025 begins, the General Muhammadu Buhari International Airport stands as a beacon of hope for economic growth and prosperity in the North East.
