The Federal Government has officially upgraded Maiduguri’s Muhammadu Buhari Airport to international status, with full international operations set to begin in January 2025.
According to Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, “The establishment of an international airport in Maiduguri is strategic for receiving international flights coming in from the Middle East into this country. It has the capacity, size, population, and infrastructure to support an international airport”.
Keyamo also highlighted the economic potential of Borno State, which remains largely untapped, and how this upgrade will set the region on a path towards economic revitalization.
Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum expressed his satisfaction with the new status of the airport, commending the Federal Government for its efforts in transforming the aviation sector. He assured that the governors in the region would provide political support for the smooth operation of the upgraded facility.
“The services in the sector have improved; anyone can attest to that. In terms of safety, the sector has experienced development and growth. I have seen the efforts the Nigerian government is making for a better aviation industry,” Zulum said.
The governor also called on the Federal Government to expedite the establishment of a national air carrier to serve the interests of Nigerians.
