The Victor Attah Airport in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, has been upgraded to international status, officially clearing the way for the processing of international passengers.
The airport had previously operated as a domestic facility, but with this approval, the transition to full international operations will now begin.
Announcing the decision in Abuja on Thursday while hosting the Akwa Ibom State governor, Pastor Umo Eno, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, said the facility already meets international standards.
"With the facilities available at the airport, there is no reason why Uyo airport should not be designated as an international airport to process international passengers," he said.
The minister added that the airport is equipped with modern amenities, including a standard maintenance, repair, and overhaul center, as well as a runway of more than three kilometres that can accommodate large aircraft.
"That is why we are here today with all relevant government agencies, including the customs, NiMet, FAAN, NCAA, and others, to set up a joint team that would commence the process of transitioning from local operations to international operations," Keyamo added.
"What is left is to tick the boxes and set a date for operations to begin.
"We will come to Uyo with the team and representatives of all relevant agencies that work at the airport to assess the facilities and tick the boxes for what is available and what would be needed for the airport to fully become an international airport."
Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno said the upgrade will support the state’s plans for a cargo terminal and an aviation village to provide housing for aviation workers.
The Victor Attah International Airport, formerly known as Akwa Ibom International Airport, is situated near Uyo, the state capital.
Commissioned in 2009 and renamed in 2018 in honour of the former governor, Obong Victor Attah.
