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| Overland Airways plane landing at Bola Tinubu International Airport Minna |
The Federal Government launched flight operations by Overland Airways at the newly reconstructed Bola Tinubu International Airport in Minna. The opening drew senior federal aviation, security, and state officials.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, led the inauguration ceremony. He called the airport a backup option to Abuja’s main airport.
The airport now spreads across 3,000 hectares of land in Niger State. It has a renovated terminal and runway ready for commercial flights.
Plans include a new modern terminal, housing units, and a fuel dump. The state government aims to build a five-star hotel and support roads.
Overland Airways launched an inaugural route connecting Minna to Abuja. The airline will serve regular flights from Minna on this route.
Captain Edward Boyo, Overland Airways’ Managing Director, assured passengers of modern service and safety standards. He praised the airport’s modern facilities for passenger comfort and reliability.
Governor Umaru Bago thanked President Tinubu for supporting the project. He said this effort will boost the local Niger State economy.
The airport will host a $3.2 million Army Aviation hangar funded by the Pan-African Business Forum. This facility aims to support military training and regional security operations.
Key agencies like Customs, Immigration, Police, and NDLEA will deploy staff to the new airport. This will ease passenger processing when there are delays or closures at Abuja.
The airport’s name honors President Bola Tinubu, reflecting national pride. The renaming underscores its role in Nigeria’s air transportation network.
The new flight route may boost trade and commerce in Minna. Local traders stand to gain from easier cargo and passenger links.
FAAN’s managing director was represented at the ceremony, signaling readiness to manage operations. The move shows FAAN’s commitment to maintain high quality standards.
Officials say flight licenses for Lagos services are under review. The airport could expand to serve Kano and other routes in future.
Local community leaders expect steady growth and new jobs soon. They view the airport as a spark for regional development.
Additional road networks and housing units form part of the upgrade plan. These projects will support both airport staff and daily users.
The minister noted the facility was underused for years despite its global features. He urged all relevant agencies to utilize the airport fully for operations.
Officials shared photos of the sleek terminal and runway on social media. These posts highlight the airport’s modern design and advanced facilities.
The project aligns with the New Niger Agenda to boost agriculture and industry. This partnership showcases effective federal and state cooperation.
The fuel dump will ensure reliable fuel supply for all flights. This facility reduces risks of potential fuel shortages.
A five-star Hilton hotel will open close to the airport terminal. This lodging aims to serve both leisure travelers and corporate guests.
The aviation estate will house 500 staff families close to the airport. Officials say the estate will support growing local housing demand.
The launch marks a milestone in Nigeria’s push for better regional air hubs. Other states may follow this model to upgrade their local airports.
This event signals a new chapter for Niger State’s airlines and passengers. It may reshape air travel patterns across central Nigeria in coming years.
What do you think this airport upgrade means for Niger State? Share your view below to spark discussion in the comments.