The Federal Government has officially launched commercial flight operations at the newly reconstructed Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport in Minna, Niger State.
The inauguration, held on Wednesday, was led by Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, who described the airport as a strategic alternative to Abuja’s Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport. Keyamo noted that the government is finalizing plans to deploy Customs, Immigration, Police, NDLEA, and other key agencies to ensure seamless passenger processing, especially if operational disruptions occur in Abuja.
Governor Umaru Bago praised President Bola Tinubu for his support in making the project a reality. He highlighted ongoing upgrades, including a renovated terminal and runway, a new modern terminal, a 500-unit aviation estate, a fuel dump, and a five-star Hilton hotel. The airport, which sits on 3,000 hectares, is also being supported by a 1,000-kilometre road network to boost connectivity and operations.
The new airport is expected to drive investment, create jobs, and significantly contribute to Niger State’s GDP, particularly in agriculture. Overland Airways, the first airline to operate from the airport, has committed to providing excellent service and called for continued stakeholder support.
Beyond commercial flights, the airport has been designated as the site for a $3.2 million Army Aviation Hangar, set to house attack helicopters, UAVs, and light aircraft to support surveillance and security operations in the region.
The Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport is poised to become a major aviation and logistics hub, connecting Minna to key cities and international destinations, and opening new economic opportunities for Niger State and beyond.
