Federal Government Declares Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport Minna as Alternative to Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport.
By Yahaya Zakka Minna.
The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially designated the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport Minna as an alternative to the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.
This announcement was made by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, during the inaugural commercial flight event held at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport Minna.
Minister Keyamo stated that the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport is well-positioned to serve as an alternative due to its superior facilities, including a high-quality runway, and its proximity to the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
He expressed concern over the airport’s previous underutilization despite having all the necessary international facilities and urged all relevant agencies to collaborate and manage passenger processing in Minna during any disruptions at Abuja International Airport.
Keyamo praised the political will of the Niger State Governor, Farmer Mohammed Umaru Bago, noting that the governor has made remarkable strides for the state and that this development marks the beginning of many positive changes.
He assured that the Federal Government would continue to support Niger State as it becomes a key player in aeronautic activities.
Governor Bago expressed his delight at this achievement, crediting it to collective efforts and calling it a historic milestone.
He stated that this recognition from the Federal Government fulfills a long-held vision of General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida and other influential figures from the state.
Bago emphasized that the partnership between the Niger State government and the commercial flight operator, Overland, will be maintained, especially now that the airport is an alternative to the Abuja International Airport.
The governor also announced plans for additional projects around the airport to showcase his administration’s commitment to aviation.
He thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support of Niger State and appreciated the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, along with all stakeholders who contributed to realizing this vision.
Capt. Edward Boyo, Managing Director of Overland Airways, acknowledged President Tinubu’s contributions to the aviation industry and recognized Governor Bago’s significant efforts in launching Overland’s flight operations in Minna.
He emphasized that these operations aim to open doors for trade, investment, agriculture, and other industries, thereby boosting Niger State’s economy.
In their remarks, attendees including Abdullahi Idris Garba, Chairman of the House Committee on Aviation, Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security Abdullahi Sabi Aliyu, and Speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly Abdulmalik Sarkin Daji, described this development as an opportunity for economic revitalization in the state and commended Governor Bago for his groundbreaking achievements.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, referred to the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport Minna as the best in the country regarding aeronautic facilities, highlighting the successful collaboration between the Niger State government and the Federal Government.
Former Niger State Governor Dr. Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu encouraged Governor Bago to pursue his development agenda without hesitation, assuring him of continued support for his people-oriented policies.
Governor Bago then led the ministers and other dignitaries to inspect the Hajj Terminal constructed by his administration. Commercial flights had last operated in Minna during Dr. Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu’s tenure (2007-2015), but this service was not sustained thereafter.
