Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has highlighted the economic and regional importance of the newly upgraded Victor Attah International Airport, describing its international status as a major breakthrough for the state and the Gulf of Guinea region.
The governor made the remarks during a press briefing following his return from the airport’s maiden international flight from Accra, Ghana. He said the development would boost tourism, trade, and investment opportunities across multiple sectors.
According to him, the airport’s international certification now allows direct flights within the sub-region, reducing the need for passengers to transit through other countries and positioning Akwa Ibom as a new hub for international travel and business.
Eno added that the state is working to transform Uyo into a centre for global conferences, similar to cities like Kigali, through ongoing investments in hospitality and conference infrastructure.
He also announced plans to establish a cargo terminal at the airport to strengthen trade routes and improve logistics capacity across the region.
As part of the broader aviation strategy, the governor revealed the creation of a new Ministry of Aviation and Airport Development, with Uwem Ekanem appointed to oversee the sector temporarily until a substantive commissioner is named.
He commended President Bola Tinubu for approving the airport’s international designation, and praised the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, for supporting the regulatory process that enabled international operations to begin.
Governor Eno also acknowledged past leaders of the state, including Victor Attah, Godswill Akpabio, and Udom Emmanuel, for their contributions to the airport’s development, describing the achievement as the result of years of successive effort.
On aviation expansion, he disclosed plans to grow Ibom Air’s fleet to 10 aircraft, with a new Airbus expected to arrive in June. He also confirmed ongoing investments in pilot training, engineering, airport management, and other technical areas.
He listed several ongoing infrastructure projects within the aviation ecosystem, including a second runway, apron expansion, aviation village, perimeter fencing, medical facilities, and advanced security systems.
Eno clarified that the inaugural international flight marks the activation of the airport’s certification, with full commercial international operations expected after final regulatory processes are completed.
Looking ahead, he said the government is also considering listing Ibom Air on the stock exchange as part of efforts to ensure long-term sustainability and growth.
The governor described the milestone as a collective achievement and a turning point in Akwa Ibom’s development journey, noting that continued investment in tourism, aviation, and infrastructure will position the state as a key destination for global engagement.
