By Gbenga Akingbule
All are being put in place to commence a smooth take-off of International flight operations come January 1st 2025, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo said on Thursday in Maiduguri, the Borno State Capital.
Gatekeepers News reports that the Borno State Governor, Prof Babagana Zulum lauded the Federal Government for the project, stating that it will enhance transborder trade and boost the economic and social well-being of the people of the state and the North East Region.
According to the Keyamo most flights, especially those flying into Nigeria from the far and Middle East have been advised to relocate their air operations activities to Maiduguri International Airport for easy International flight operations.
Although Maiduguri Airport has been engaged in International flight operations with only Saudi Arabia at its International route to convey Muslim Pilgrims to the Holy Land, the Minister said the new status of the airport will attract airlines and air travellers from all parts of the world.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Fetus Keyamo said this during an inspection visit to Maiduguri International Airport to access facilities ahead of the January 1st take-off date.
Keyamo stated that all facilities required for effective International flight operations will be put in place in the next three weeks adding that the runway of Maiduguri International Airport is one of the best in the country
“From January 1st 2025, we expect that many of the International Airlines should relocate their take-off point and arrival to Maiduguri- the ones (airlines) that are existing and the ones we’re going to attract.
“Maiduguri International Airport has an International runway that is better than most other airports that are International. The major thing you need is the aeronautical infrastructure; we’re ready as regards that, for the non-aeronautical infrastructure, it will be ready within two or three weeks,” Keyamo said
The Minister also revealed that the Airport is also designated as a cargo airport pointing out that President Bola Tinubu has upgraded Maiduguri International Airport to a World Class standard for the benefit of the people of the North East Region.
“We’re also thinking that Maiduguri International Airport should be a hub for cargo operations in the North East. This is one of the democratic dividends Mr President decided to bring the region and that North East should have a world-class International airport,” the Aviation Minister said.
Prof Zulum who commended President Bola Tinubu for appointing Festus Keyamo as the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development stated that Borno will continue to support the Federal Government in carrying out its activities in Borno State.
“I wish to commend the President for the achievements made in the aviation sector. The commencement of International flight operations here in Maiduguri will no doubt enhance transborder trade as you’re aware, Borno State is sharing borders with the Republic of Chad, Niger and Cameroon.
“We shall continue to provide support for Mr President to succeed. I want to also use this opportunity to express my profound appreciation to the President for the humongous support given to Borno State during the flooding incident,” Prof Zulum said.
