Borno Governor Pledges Support For Maiduguri Airport International Upgrade

Abuja, Nigeria – Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum has assured the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace, Festus Keyamo, of his administration’s full support for the planned upgrade of the Muhammadu Buhari Airport, Maiduguri, to international status.

During a visit to the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja on Monday, Governor Zulum emphasized the importance of the project, stating, “As the chairman of northeast governors and this being our first International Airport, I want to assure you of the political will needed to ensure the implementation of this laudable stride.”

The Governor highlighted that Maiduguri, serving as a key gateway for countries surrounding Lake Chad and Central Africa, will see a significant economic boost with the airport’s upgrade.

He emphasized the potential for stimulating development in the northeast region through increased trade and tourism.

Minister Keyamo, in his earlier remarks, confirmed that the Muhammadu Buhari Airport will commence operations as a full international airport on January 1, 2025.

He assured that all necessary preparations have been completed and relevant government agencies have been notified of the development.

Expressing gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the upgrade, Minister Keyamo noted that the northeast is the only geopolitical zone in Nigeria without a full international airport.

He emphasized the significance of this project in bridging the gap and providing much-needed connectivity to the region.

Governor Zulum was accompanied on his visit by Senators Mohammed Ali Ndume, Mohammed Tahir Monguno, and Kaka Shehu Lawan, representing Borno South, North, and Central, respectively.

Borno APC Chairman Hon. Bello Ayuba, Deputy Speaker of Borno State House of Assembly, Engr Abdullahi Musa Askira, and other senior government officials were also present.