The Federal Government has commenced the process of upgrading the Muhammadu Buhari Airport in Maiduguri to an international airport, with full operations set to begin on January 1, 2025.
This was disclosed by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, during a courtesy visit by Borno State Governor Babagana Umar Zulum to his office in Abuja.
Emphasising the strategic importance of the North East, particularly Borno State, as a commercial hub that links Nigeria to neighboring countries, Keyamo said “Establishing an international airport in Maiduguri is strategic for receiving international flights, especially from the Middle East”.
“The airport has the capacity, size, population, and infrastructure to support its new status”.
The minister also highlighted the untapped economic potential of Borno State, noting that the international airport would contribute significantly to the economic revival of the entire North East region.
Governor Zulum, who is also the Chairman of the North East Governors Forum, expressed satisfaction with the airport’s new status. He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Minister Keyamo, and the aviation sector for the ongoing transformation. Zulum assured the federal government of the political will from North East governors to ensure smooth operations at the airport.
“The services in the aviation sector have improved, particularly in terms of safety and development, and anyone can attest to that,” Zulum said.
