A’Ibom airport inaugurates maiden international flight
As the Victor Attah International Airport commenced international operations with its maiden flight from Uyo to Ghana, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), has described the airport as a uniquely remarkable transit hub and a pace-setter in Nigeria’s aviation sector.
The minister made the remarks on Friday, 2 May 2026, during a brief ceremony held at the airport to celebrate the launch of its first international flight.
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*Eno and Keyamo
As the Victor Attah International Airport commenced international operations with its maiden flight from Uyo to Ghana, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), has described the airport as a uniquely remarkable transit hub and a pace-setter in Nigeria’s aviation sector.
The minister made the remarks on Friday, 2 May 2026, during a brief ceremony held at the airport to celebrate the launch of its first international flight.
Keyamo said Akwa Ibom State was gradually transforming into “a Dubai in Nigeria” due to its impressive infrastructural renaissance and the far-reaching impact of its development on both the region and the nation.
“This airport is not just another airport or terminal building, but a world-class transit hub with immense impact.
“With this facility, passengers are allowed to transfer flights from international to international, domestic to international, and international to domestic,” he said.
According to the minister, such a facility is unparalleled at the sub-national level anywhere in Nigeria.
“This kind of service does not exist in any sub-national entity anywhere in the country except here. This is not just the best; it is the only one of its kind in the country, a true pace-setter,” he added.
He acknowledged the airport’s significant economic impact on Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria, describing its ripple effects as massive.
Keyamo also commended Governor Umo Eno for his commitment to completing the project and actualising its international status.
In his remarks, Eno attributed the airport’s transformation to the visionary leadership of his predecessors.
“It was indeed a relay race of impactful leadership, from Obong Victor Attah, to Chief Godswill Akpabio, to Mr Udom Emmanuel, and now to me. They have each contributed exceptionally to our common good,” he said.
The governor particularly praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support and timely release of funds to sub-national governments for developmental projects, including the Victor Attah International Airport.
He also appreciated Keyamo for his commitment and special interest in the realisation of the airport’s international operations.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Finance and Supervising Commissioner for Special Duties, Emem Bob, appreciated Eno for his foresight and determination in upgrading the airport.
In separate remarks, the Managing Director of Ibom Airport Development Company, Engr Uwem Ekanem; the Chief Executive Officer of Ibom Air, Engr George Uriesi; and the Chairman of VKS, the firm that handled the construction of the new terminal, Engr Oliver Ebong, praised the governor for overcoming challenges and driving the project to completion.
The event was attended by the Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi; the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Lady Helen Eno Obareki; the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Udeme Otong; the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah; members of the State Executive Council; political leaders; clergy; and other government officials.
