The Akwa Ibom State Government has announced plans for its first international flight from Victor Attah International Airport, Uyo, to Kotoka International Airport, Accra, Ghana, marking a significant milestone in the state’s aviation development.
The maiden flight is scheduled to take off on Saturday, May 2, 2026, following presidential approval for the upgrade of the airport to international status.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Governor Umo Eno described the development as a major step forward for the state.
“I am pleased to announce that following Presidential approval for the upgrade of Victor Attah International Airport, Uyo, to international status, the maiden international flight from Uyo to Kotoka International Airport, Accra, Ghana, is set to take off on Saturday, May 2, 2026.”
He added that Ibom Air will operate the inaugural flight, with a return journey scheduled for Sunday, May 3, 2026.
“This milestone marks another major step in our commitment to expanding aviation capacity, improving global connectivity, and positioning Akwa Ibom as a preferred destination for tourism, trade, and investment,” Eno said.
The governor expressed appreciation to Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the airport’s upgrade, and to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, for his role in supporting the project. He also acknowledged the contributions of previous administrations in developing the state’s aviation sector.
Also commenting on the development, the state Commissioner for Information, Aniekan Umanah, described the launch as a landmark achievement.
”This historic milestone represents a significant step in the State’s strategic drive to expand its aviation capacity, enhance international connectivity, and position Akwa Ibom as a preferred destination for tourism and investment’
Umanah also expressed gratitude to the federal government and key stakeholders.
He said, ” The Government expresses its profound appreciation to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for granting approval, and to the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, for his efforts in ensuring the realisation of this vision.
”The Government and people of Akwa Ibom State also appreciate the contributions of former governors of the State for their pioneering roles in the development of the aviation sector and reiterate their commitment to the sustained development of the aviation ecosystem for the economic advancement of the State.”
The announcement follows earlier indications that Ibom Air would commence international operations in 2026.
During a prior inspection of the facility, Festus Keyamo had expressed satisfaction with the level of preparedness, noting that the state had made significant progress ahead of schedule.
