Muhammadu Buhari Airport in Maiduguri is set to become an international airport, marking a significant milestone for the Northeast region of Nigeria.
This upgrade is expected to boost economic growth and connectivity in the area.
Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State assured Festus Keyamo, minister of aviation of his administration’s support for the upgrade during a visit to the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja on Monday.
‘As the chairman of Northeast governors, and this is our first international airport, I want to assure you of the political will needed to ensure the implementation of this laudable stride,’ Gov. Zulum said.
The aviation minister confirmed that all preparations for the airport’s international status have been completed, and relevant government agencies have been notified.
‘Muhammadu Buhari Airport will take off as a full international airport on January 1, 2025. All the takeoff preparations have been concluded,’ the minister assured.
Gov. Zulum emphasised that Maiduguri’s strategic location as a gateway to countries surrounding Lake Chad and Central Africa makes this upgrade crucial for stimulating economic development in the Northeast region.
Mr. Keyamo expressed gratitude to President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the upgrade, noting that the North East was the only geopolitical zone without a full international airport.
The governor was accompanied in the visit by senators Muhammad Ali Ndume, Mohammed Tahir Monguno, and Kaka Shehu Lawan, representing Borno South, North, and Central, respectively.
This development is a welcome boost to the region’s economy and infrastructure, positioning Maiduguri as a vital hub for domestic and international travel.
