FG Upgrades Akwa Ibom Airport to International Status!

FG Upgrades Akwa Ibom Airport to International Status!

Reported by Marian Opeyemi Fasesan | Sele Media Africa

The Federal Government has officially upgraded Victor Attah International Airport (Uyo, Akwa Ibom) to full international status, paving the way for global flights and enhanced connectivity for the state and region. [1]

According to the announcement, the upgrade follows a comprehensive overhaul of critical airport infrastructure, including navigational aids, airfield lighting, and related facilities — enabling 24‑hour operations. [2]

What Changed

• The airport has resumed night‑time flight operations after upgrades to its lighting and navigation systems. [2]
• The approved upgrades included complete refurbishment of runway lighting, replacement of navigational aids, clearance of outstanding electricity bills, and other improvements mandated by aviation authorities. [3]
• With the upgrade, the airport is now better positioned to handle international flights, boosting potential for overseas travel, tourism, air cargo, and foreign investment. [1]

Why It Matters

• The upgrade could transform Akwa Ibom into a major air‑travel and logistics hub in the South‑South region.
• – Restored night operations and international‑level facilities offer more flexibility to airlines, travelers, and cargo services — potentially attracting foreign carriers.
• It signals growing confidence in regional aviation infrastructure and may encourage economic growth, tourism, and improved accessibility for businesses and the diaspora. What to Watch
• Announcement of scheduled international flights and partner airlines operating in and out of Uyo.
• How quickly the state and airport authorities secure landing slots and complete all certifications for international operations.
• Government and private‑sector initiatives to leverage the upgraded airport for tourism, trade, and cargo — and whether this translates into job creation and regional development.

Citations:

1. Punch: punchng.com/fg-upgrades-akwa-ibom-airport-to-international-status/?utm_medium=web&utm_source=chatgpt.com
2. Nairametrics: nairametrics.com/2025/10/01/akwa-ibom-airport-resumes-night-flight-operations/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
3. Akwa Ibom State Government: akwaibomstate.gov.ng/gov-umo-eno-releases-n1-19-billion-for-overhaul-of-airport-facilities/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

About The Author

Marian Opeyemi Fasesan

editor

Marian Opeyemi Fasesan is a dynamic journalist and editorial leader committed to excellence in news reporting and storytelling. As the Editor-in-Chief of Sele Media Africa, she ensures daily operations run smoothly while upholding the highest editorial standards. With a strong eye for detail and deep understanding of audience engagement, Marian coordinates content across platforms, guiding teams to produce compelling, timely, and credible news. Her leadership reflects the heart of Sele Media Africa’s mission—to inform, inspire, and elevate voices across the continent.

See author's posts