The Federal Government has officially upgraded Victor Attah Airport in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, to international status, marking a major step forward for global travel and business in the state.
The approval was announced in Abuja on Thursday by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, during a meeting with Governor Umo Eno. Keyamo explained that the airport already meets world-class standards and can now stand alongside other international airports in Nigeria.
He noted that the facility has modern buildings, a top-grade Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) centre, and a runway more than three kilometres long, capable of accommodating large aircraft without difficulty.
“With the facilities available, there is no reason why Uyo airport should not be designated as an international airport,” Keyamo stated.
The minister also revealed that the Federal Government has set up a joint team made up of Customs, NiMet, FAAN, NCAA and other agencies to begin the switch from local operations to full international services. He added that while the approval is already active, the next step is to finish all processes and select a date for international flights to begin.
Akwa Ibom Prepares for Growth
In his response, Governor Umo Eno thanked the Federal Government and said the state is prepared for the new phase of development. He announced fresh plans to expand facilities at the airport, including a cargo terminal and housing units for airport staff.
“What we are building is an ecosystem. We want every necessary facility within the airport environment,” Eno said.
He added that 100 new staff houses are already being developed, while the cargo terminal has been captured in the 2026 budget. According to him, the state is targeting the first international flight from Uyo before the end of the first quarter of 2026.
Victor Attah Airport, opened in 2009 and renamed in 2018 in honour of former Governor Obong Victor Attah, has grown into a strong regional aviation centre. The new international status is expected to expand tourism, trade and global connections across Akwa Ibom and the South-South zone.
Governor Celebrates Approval on Social Media
Governor Umo Eno shared the news with citizens via social media, describing the development as a milestone for Akwa Ibom.
“This upgrade places our airport among select facilities authorised for international traffic. It opens new doors for tourism, investment and global connectivity,” he wrote.”
