President Bola Tinubu has approved the upgrade of Maiduguri Airport in Borno State to international status. This decision aligns with the government’s strategy to enhance air travel accessibility across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.
The Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, Sunday Dare, disclosed this development on Thursday through his verified X handle. He emphasized that this approval completes the establishment of at least one international airport in each of the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria.
Dare stated, “President Tinubu has approved the upgrade of the Maiduguri Airport to the status of an international airport. This completes the round of international airports across the country with each geo-political zone having an airport.”
Nigeria’s Expanding Network of International Airports
Nigeria’s international airports serve as critical gateways for travel, trade, and tourism, handling both passenger and cargo flights. The country’s major international airports include:
- Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos—the busiest airport in Nigeria, serving as the primary hub for international air traffic.
- Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja—Nigeria’s second busiest airport, catering to the nation’s capital.
- Port Harcourt International Airport: A key airport for the oil-rich Niger Delta region.
- Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu—serves the southeastern region, facilitating international connections.
- Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano A major hub in northern Nigeria, providing key access to global routes.
- Victor Attah International Airport, Uyo – The most recent addition, boosting aviation capacity in the South-South region.
The upgrade of Maiduguri Airport to international status marks a significant step in improving connectivity in Nigeria’s Northeast, a region that has faced infrastructural and security challenges over the years. This move is expected to boost economic activities, facilitate international travel, and attract foreign investments into the region.
Nigeria Strengthens Aviation and Aerospace Education
In a related development, Dare also announced the commencement of operations at the African Aviation and Aerospace University (AAAU) in Abuja. This specialized institution aims to advance education in aviation and aerospace studies, positioning Nigeria as a leader in the sector within Africa.
“Nigeria’s aviation industry is taking significant strides forward. The African Aviation and Aerospace University takes off in Abuja,” Dare stated.
The university is expected to produce skilled professionals in aeronautics, aerospace engineering, and aviation management. It aligns with Nigeria’s broader vision of strengthening its aviation sector, fostering innovation, and positioning itself as a strategic player in Africa’s growing aviation and aerospace industry.
Implications for Nigeria’s Aviation Sector
The upgrade of Maiduguri Airport and the launch of AAAU signal a renewed commitment by the federal government to boost Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure. With air travel playing a crucial role in economic development, these initiatives could contribute to increased trade, tourism, and investments in the country.
Furthermore, as Nigeria enhances its aviation education capabilities, the country stands to benefit from an improved workforce, greater research and development in the aerospace sector, and stronger international collaborations.
As these projects unfold, stakeholders in the aviation and business sectors will closely monitor how they shape Nigeria’s position in the global air transport and aerospace industries.
