The Federal Government is teaming up with the government of Borno State on the upgrading of the General Muhammadu Buhari International Airport to international Status.
In an assertion by the Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, Tunde Moshood said the minister, joined by Chief Executives from key aviation agencies, including the managing director of Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Olubunmi Kuku, the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Engr. Farouk Umar, the DG of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Chris Najomo ably represented Engr. Balang and the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), conducted a significant one-day working visit to Maiduguri, the Borno State Capital to solidify plans.
The designation, which included other critical stakeholders like the Customs, DSS, Immigration, NDLEA, and others, was heartily received by the Governor of Borno State, Prof. Babagana Zulum.
The assertion to a limited extent, “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, Lead Representative Zulum expressed his heartfelt gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for delegating Keyamo, whose responsibility and visionary leadership have contributed altogether to advancements within the aviation sector since his appointment. The Lead Representative reaffirmed the Borno State Government’s commitment to teaming up completely with the Federal Government to guarantee the successful launch of operations on the planned date.
“The aviation minister, addressing the assembled stakeholders, underlined the significance of this project as a symbol of growth and resilience for the region, noting that the General Muhammadu Buhari International Airport is ready to be the first completely operational international airport in the North East Zone. With its top-notch runway and state-of-the-art facilities, the air terminal will likewise act as a regional cargo hub, offering critical support to the economy of the North East and beyond.”
The visit served as a critical platform for the minister and stakeholders to address strategic considerations and guarantee a seamless transition to international operations.
It likewise highlighted the Federal Government’s commitment to upgrading Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure, with an emphasis on regional development and national integration.
“The Minister’s visit reaffirms the Federal Government’s commitment to reinforcing Nigeria’s aviation landscape, supporting economic development, and advancing accessibility for all regions. As the General Muhammadu Buhari International Airport gets ready to open entryways for international travel and trade, the coordinated effort between the Federal and Borno State governments makes way for a future of prosperity and progress in the North East.”
