FG upgrades Maiduguri airport to international status

The federal government has announced the upgrade of the Muhammadu Buhari airport, Maiduguri to international status to further boost economic activities in the state.

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, disclosed this during a courtesy visit by the Borno state Governor Babagana Umar Zulum in his office in Abuja.

Keyamo while describing North east Nigeria particularly Borno state as a commercial city that connects Nigeria with other countries. said the airport will commence full operation as international airport from January 1, 2025.

“Establishment of international airport in Maiduguri is strategic to receive international flights coming in from Middle East into this Country, it has the capacity, it has the size, population and infrastructure to support as international airport,” he stated.

The minister said that the level of wealth in Borno State is yet untapped, and with this development North eastern Nigeria is set for economic revival.

Governor of Borno State and Chairman North east Governors Forum, Babagana Umar Zulum expressed his happiness on the new status the Maidugugur airport i has attained. He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Minister of Aviation and the entire Aviation sector for the uncommon transformation in the aviation sector.

He assured the Minister that North East governors will provide the political will needed to ensure the smooth operation of the airport.

He added, “The services in the sector has improved, anyone can attest to that, in terms of safety the sector has experienced development and growth, I have seen efforts the Nigeria Government is making for a better aviation industry”

Zulum requested that Federal Government expedite action to ensure Nigeria has her own air-carrier which will serve the interest of Nigerians.