The Federal Government is working with the Borno State government to upgrade the General Muhammadu Buhari International Airport to international status.
A statement from the Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, Tunde Moshood, revealed that the minister, along with Chief Executives from key aviation agencies, conducted a significant one-day working visit to Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, on Thursday. The delegation included the managing director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Olubunmi Kuku, the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) Managing Director, Engr. Farouk Umar, the Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Chris Najomo (who represented Engr. Balang), and officials from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet). The visit was aimed at solidifying plans for the airport’s upgrade.
The delegation, which included other critical stakeholders like the Customs, DSS, Immigration, NDLEA, and others, was warmly received by the Governor of Borno State, Prof. Babagana Zulum.
The statement read in part, “The visit facilitated vital discussions on the forthcoming upgrade of the General Muhammadu Buhari International Airport, a project aimed at enabling the airport to commence full international operations by January 1, 2025. This milestone upgrade is positioned to not only enhance connectivity for the North East Zone but also to strengthen Maiduguri’s role in international air travel and cargo transportation.
“During the meeting, Governor Zulum expressed his gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing Keyamo, whose commitment and visionary leadership have contributed significantly to advancements within the aviation sector since his appointment. The Governor reaffirmed the Borno State Government’s commitment to collaborating fully with the Federal Government to ensure the successful launch of operations on the planned date.
“The aviation Minister, in addressing the assembled stakeholders, emphasized the importance of this project as a symbol of growth and resilience for the region, noting that the General Muhammadu Buhari International Airport is poised to be the first fully operational international airport in the North East Zone. With its world-class runway and state-of-the-art facilities, the airport will also serve as a regional cargo hub, offering critical support to the economy of the North East and beyond.”
The visit provided a crucial platform for the minister and stakeholders to address logistical concerns and ensure a smooth transition to international operations.
It also highlighted the Federal Government’s commitment to improving Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure, emphasizing regional development and fostering national cohesion.
“The Honourable Minister’s visit reaffirms the Federal Government’s dedication to strengthening Nigeria’s aviation landscape, supporting economic growth, and promoting accessibility for all regions. As the General Muhammadu Buhari International Airport prepares to open new doors for international travel and trade, the collaboration between the Federal and Borno State governments sets the stage for a future of prosperity and progress in the North East.”
