FG Designates Victor Attah Airport in Uyo as an International Airport

•  Airport to receive, process international passengers

The Federal Government on Thursday designated the Victor Attah Airport in Uyo as an international airport which would henceforth receive and process international passengers.

With this approval, the airport, which before now was local, would commence the process for converting to full international operations.

The minister of aviation and aerospace development, Festus Keyamo, made the announcement in Abuja when he hosted the governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, adding that the airport has all standard facilities that would make it compete with other international airports across the country.

Keyamo disclosed that the airport has all the modern facilities with a standard MRO and runaway of over three kilometres, which can accommodate bigger aircraft.

The minister explained that “With the facilities available at the airport, there is no reason why Uyo airport should not be designated as an international airport to process international passengers.

“That is why we are here today with all relevant government agencies including the customs, NiMet, FAAN, NCAA and others to set up a joint team that would commence the process of transmitting from local operations to international operations.

“What we want to tell you today is that we are designating Uyo airport as an international airport. What is left is to tick the boxes and set a date for operations to begin.

“We will come to Uyo with the team and representatives of all relevant agencies that work at the airport to access the facilities and tick the boxes for what is available and what would be needed for the airport to fully become an international airport.”

In his response, Governor Eno expressed his appreciation to the federal government and the minister for the approval, adding that the airport is well equipped for the international operations.

Eno announced that the Akwa Ibom State government will construct a cargo terminal and residential buildings for the staff of the airport.

“What we are building is an ecosystem at the airport. We want everything within the airport environment. We will build a cargo terminal, which is already captured in the 2026 budget.

“We will also ensure the 100 units of houses under construction be used to ensure the proper settling down of workers at the airport. My target is that by the end of first quarter of 2026, let the first international plane take off from Uyo,” he emphasized.

With the designation, Governor Eno, has reinforced Akwa Ibom’s rising profile as a regional aviation hub as well as his administration’s steadfast commitment to opening new doors of opportunity for citizens, investors, and visitors among others.

The Victor Attah International Airport, formerly Akwa Ibom International Airport, is located near Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom State in Nigeria.

It was first opened in 2009, renamed in 2018 to honour former governor Obong Victor Attah, and has been expanded to handle large aircraft. The airport serves as a regional hub and a showcase for the area’s culture and infrastructure.

This designation, has now elevated Victor Attah International Airport into the category of Nigerian airports authorised for international traffic, unlocking vast opportunities for global connectivity, tourism expansion, business development, and improved foreign investment.