Akwa Ibom Secures Federal Approval for Full International Flights at Victor Attah Airport

Akwa Ibom has recorded another major breakthrough as the Federal Government has officially approved Victor Attah International Airport for full international flight operations. The approval was secured today during a meeting between Governor Umo Eno and the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.

With this new status, our state owned airport now joins the select group of airports in Nigeria authorised to handle international traffic. For many Akwa Ibomites, this is not just another government announcement it is a big win that promises to open fresh doors for tourism, global connectivity, business expansion, and foreign investment.

According to the Governor, full international operations are expected to kick off by the first quarter of 2026, positioning the airport to play an even bigger role in the aviation sector.

This development is especially significant when you consider how far Akwa Ibom has come in building its aviation ecosystem from the success of Ibom Air, to the ongoing completion of the state of the-art maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facility, and now, an international flight approval.

Governor Eno described the milestone as a “major step forward for our dear state,” adding that his administration remains committed to creating opportunities that will continue to strengthen Akwa Ibom’s image as an emerging aviation hub in Nigeria and West Africa.

As we look forward to 2026, many Akwa Ibom people are hopeful and excited. A fully operational international airport means easier travel, more investment, and greater visibility for the state.

Indeed, Akwa Ibom is rising and this is just the beginning.

God bless Akwa Ibom State.