Fatshimetrie is abuzz as the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, announced the official inauguration of the Muhammadu Buhari Airport in Maiduguri, Borno State, as an international airport on January 1, 2025. The news has generated a lot of interest, marking a major milestone for the North-Eastern region of Nigeria.
In a context where air transport is increasingly important, the announcement of the upgrade of Maiduguri Airport to an international airport assumes major significance. Indeed, Mr. Keyamo noted that all necessary preparations had been completed for the transformation, and relevant government agencies had been informed of the imminent launch.
During the visit of Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State to the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja, the Minister expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for approving the upgrade of the Maiduguri Airport. According to him, the North East was the only geopolitical zone in Nigeria without a fully operational international airport.
This initiative is proving to be of strategic importance as the Maiduguri airport will be able to accommodate international flights from the Middle East. Its capacity, size, population and infrastructure are all assets that will favourably support the status of an international airport.
Governor Zulum also highlighted the positive impact that this upgrade could have on economic growth and regional connectivity. As Chairman of the North East Governors Forum, he affirmed the political will required to make this promising development a reality.
Commending Mr. Keyamo’s efforts in transforming the aviation sector, Governor Zulum highlighted the improvements in the delivery of air services. He highlighted the progress in terms of safety and development of this crucial sector, thus demonstrating the commitment of the Nigerian government to a quality aviation industry.
The announcement of the upgrade of Muhammadu Buhari Airport in Maiduguri to an international airport raises expectations and hopes for the future of the North-East region of Nigeria. This development promises not only to strengthen ties with other regions of the world, but also to boost economic development and the growth of air transport in the region.