The Federal Government has officially granted Victor Attah Airport full international airport status, marking a major step in Akwa Ibom State’s aviation development. Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, announced the designation during a joint media briefing with Governor Umo Eno, noting that only compliance procedures remain before international operations commence. Keyamo explained that the approval reflects years of investment in infrastructure and the steady transformation of the facility into a world-class gateway. View Video Here
Keyamo emphasised that the government’s decision followed a detailed inspection of the airport earlier in the year. He described the Uyo complex as an aviation asset with untapped potential, strengthened by its brand-new terminal, extended runway and modern Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul facility.
According to him, these projects collectively positioned the airport for seamless international operations. He said the infrastructure was not just impressive but aligned with global operational standards.
“I was here in Akwa Ibom sometime ago to inspect the facilities. What we have in Uyo is a hidden gem. The MRO that is being built in Uyo is one of the best and it is about ninety-five percent complete,” he said. Keyamo noted that the runway surpassed the specifications of many international gateways. “The runway in Uyo is more than even so many international runways. We have 3.6 kilometres. That is the standard international runway that would take an A380.”
He further highlighted the quality of the terminal, stating that it was deliberately designed for global travel. “The terminal building that is being built there is built purposely to process passengers, international passengers. I went into that facility. It is a wonderful facility,” he said. He added that the continuation of these investments by the current administration ensured consistency in completing projects vital to aviation progress.
Growing Readiness for International Airport Status
Meanwhile, the Minister maintained that there was no reason delaying Uyo’s advancement to international airport status, considering its readiness and capacity to handle long-haul travellers. He stressed that the presence of all required agencies, including Immigration, Customs, NDLEA and Quarantine, would support smooth operations once the compliance checklist was fully completed. “There is no reason why we should not designate the Uyo airport as an international airport to process international passengers,” Keyamo declared.
He assured stakeholders that the designation was effective immediately, even as a committee would finalise operational steps. “As Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, we are dedicating Uyo Airport as an international airport. What is left is to tick the boxes, set up a small committee, meet all the requirements and look for a particular date for operations to begin. But it is designated, as from today, as an international airport.”
The Minister confirmed that the committee would begin work without delay. He stated that technical staff from all aviation agencies, alongside representatives of the Ministry, would collaborate with the Akwa Ibom authorities. He said the Permanent Secretary would coordinate the process to ensure swift compliance and timely commencement of international flights.
Governor Umo Eno expressed satisfaction with the Federal Government’s decision, noting that it validated the state’s sustained investment in aviation infrastructure. He commended the professionalism of the airport management team and acknowledged the support of the state executive council. “Together with my team, the management of our airport authority, the commissioner for transport and our dedicated commissioners, we have worked tirelessly,” he said.
Eno also praised the collaborative spirit between the public and private sectors, saying the Minister’s background in private-sector practice contributed to his clear appreciation of efficient delivery. He noted that the state had remained consistent in meeting deadlines and implementing projects essential for economic development. The Governor added that the new designation aligned with the long-term vision for Akwa Ibom to become a regional aviation hub, supported by the almost completed MRO facility and the passenger-ready terminal.
The confirmation of international airport status at Victor Attah Airport reinforces Akwa Ibom’s growing role in Nigeria’s aviation landscape. It also aligns with industry-wide calls for improved capacity, stronger infrastructure and more gateways to ease passenger movement. With inspection committees resuming work immediately, the move brings the airport closer to full international operations.
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