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| Tinubu International Airport Minna - Terminal and Runway |
Federal rulers have named Tinubu International Airport in Minna as a backup for Abuja’s main airport. The decision took effect on April 23, 2025, in a public ceremony. Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo led the swearing-in event in Minna. He used powers granted by federal law to make the call. The step aims to cut pressure on Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport. The move has sparked wide public and expert talk across Nigeria.
The announcement came during the first Overland Airways flight from Minna. The carrier now links Minna with key cities like Abuja and Lagos. The event marked a new chapter for regional air travel in Niger State. Keyamo praised the terminal and runway at the airport site. He told aviation bodies to take note and start work. The crowd included state leaders and airline chiefs.
The runway at Minna spans 3,400 meters of solid asphalt. It meets global size rules for large jets and cargo planes. Planes like the Boeing 747 and 777 can land safely here. The field sits about ten kilometers northwest of central Minna city. Surrounding roads link the site to major highways in Niger State. Local staff say the site is now ready for full use.
The airport was first built over forty years ago to serve local flights. It lay mostly unused for years until recent upgrades began. The government spent months adding new lights and safety gear. A fresh terminal building rose next to the long runway last year. President Tinubu officially renamed the site in March 2024. That change honored the new leader and marked a fresh start.
Aviation analysts say this move will help ease Abuja delays. They note that Abuja often faces long queues and flight holdups. Spreading flights to Minna may cut wait times for many passengers. The swap can also boost air travel options for local flyers. Experts add that national revenue could rise from new fees. They call for clear plans to link both airports via air shuttle.
The FG has asked NCAA and FAAN to adjust flight rules fast. Those bodies must update flight logs and slot bookings at Minna. They also need to boost safety checks and ground crew staffing. The shift may require fresh rules for check-in and security. Airport chiefs say they are ready to meet new demands. They plan to open more counters and staff for rush times.
The Minna site has long served as a base for Hajj flights. Each year, pilgrims used the airport to travel to Mecca by air. The move to open it fully may boost cargo and Hajj services. CAPA notes the airport’s spare capacity was ideal for growth. The site now holds promise for more regular domestic flights. Analysts say a shift from Hajj-only use can widen service scope.
State leaders now plan to market Minna as a cargo hub. They seek to move perishables like fruits and fish swiftly by air. Quick transport can cut spoilage and raise farmer incomes. FAAN had set aside land for cargo storage and cold chain units. Experts stress that more cranes and tugs will be needed on site. They call for private partners to invest in cargo handling gear.
Federal leaders say they will pump funds into navigation aids at Minna. They will add new radars and communication systems next year. The funds will boost pilot visibility and flight safety at night. Local staff will train on the new tech to keep systems running. The plan includes extra landing lights and weather monitoring gear. Those steps aim to meet global safety rules for major airports.
The Nigeria Lawyer report noted the site’s key features match top global hubs. They cited its face, runway, and setting next to open land. The ambience can meet traveler comfort expectations on world routes. The report said Minna now stands on par with top global airports. They noted the site can host big jets and heavy cargo planes. Editors said full use was overdue and a wise choice for the FG.
Observers ask why the site lay idle for decades despite clear value. They say past neglect may point to deeper funding or planning faults. Some fear new title alone cannot fix old work and design gaps. Planners must check for long-term maintenance and staff training needs. Without solid follow through, the move could stall like past efforts. They urge clear roadmaps with firm dates and budget lines.
Abuja’s main field handled about 5.9 million passengers in 2023. Lagos topped national charts with roughly 6.8 million travelers that year. Other hubs in Kano and Port Harcourt handle under three million each. Shifting some flights to Minna could cut Abuja’s load nearly twenty percent. That shift may let Abuja add routes to new global cities. Minna may then host private jets and regional charters regularly.
Overland Airways will begin scheduled flights from Minna on April 23, 2025. The deal came from a team by New Niger Aviation SPV and the airline. Service will cover Abuja and key cities like Lagos on set days. The airline predicted healthy load factors for regular runs. Bookings opened online after the FG naming announcement. Overland’s early runs will test passenger interest at Minna hub.
Critics raised voice when the airport took Tinubu’s name. Some said it wrong to name a public asset after a sitting leader. Others saw it as a political move, not a service upgrade. The row showed deep divides in national debate on leadership. Still, most voices now focus on the airport’s real use. The FG appears set to press ahead with the plan.
The new naming fits FG plans to spread flights across states. Planners want to ease Abuja and Lagos runway congestion. They aim to handle more planes without big delays at main hubs. Minna now stands in line as a ready backup airport. Experts praise the FG’s aim to boost travel efficiency. They urge follow up with more alternate sites in Ogun and Kwara.
The Niger State leader plans to finish cargo and new international terminals soon. Those steps will add handling space for passengers and goods. FAAN boss praised the state’s quick build in record time. The move promises to raise capacity for perishable and general cargo. State funding for supporting roads also came with the plans. Local teams watch progress on the new hangar and storage units.
TVC News said the airport now holds a dual runway system and modern lounges. They noted it previously flew many pilgrims for Hajj trips. Workers added new lights, air bridges, and fuel stores at the site. The upgrades brought it up to global rules for passenger comfort. The network said the field can now handle daily international flights. Broadcasters praised the FG’s support for modernizing the site.
Weather data shows Minna sees clear skies most mornings. Afternoon heat can reach around 38°C during the harmattan season. Rainy months bring storms and brief heavy downpours in evenings. Pilots and ground staff must watch for wind gusts and low clouds. Planned navigation aids will include better weather radar and forecasts. Those tools will help keep flights safe during rough weather.
The country now has two main gateways for its capital. Minna waits to prove itself as a steady backup hub. Nigerians will watch flights and cargo move through this field. Only time will show how well the site meets demand. Could Minna stand up to the challenge? What will other states consider next?