Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has approved and released ₦1.194 billion for major upgrades at the Victor Attah International Airport in Uyo.
According to the government, the goal is to improve key facilities and allow night flight operations to begin again. The Governor has given the airport management an eight-week deadline to finish the work or face penalties.
The Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Aniekan Umanah, explained that the funds will be used to replace vital equipment such as navigational aids, upgrade airfield lighting, pay electricity bills, and settle service charges with the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA).
These improvements are part of the Governor’s wider plan to develop top-class infrastructure under his ARISE Agenda, the Commissioner stressed.
He said the upgrade follows a request from airport officials, who said that better lighting and modern navigation systems were urgently needed. Once complete, the airport will be able to safely handle flights at night, increasing its capacity and boosting tourism and investment in the state.
Governor Eno has told airport managers and contractors to follow the timeline strictly and deliver quality work that meets international standards, he further noted.
In addition to lighting improvements, the Governor also highlighted other ongoing projects at the airport, including the new terminal building, access roads, car park, VIP lounge cover, aircraft apron, taxiway, security systems, the Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility, and the Aviation Village. He encouraged all contractors to speed up their work.
To show the seriousness of the plan, the Commissioner for Finance and Special Duties, Mr. Emem Bob, visited the airport for an inspection along with the Information Commissioner, Rt. Hon. Umanah, and the airport’s Managing Director, Mr. Uwem Ekanem.
