FG Names Minna Airport as Backup to Abuja’s Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport

The Federal Government has officially designated the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport in Minna, Niger State, as an alternative to the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.

Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo SAN, made the announcement during the inauguration of Overland Airways’ commercial flight operations from Minna airport — marking the resumption of services after more than a decade.

Keyamo noted that the airport’s runway meets international standards and its proximity to Abuja makes it a strategic backup to the nation’s capital airport. “Minna airport has the face, runway, ambience, and location of a world-class international airport,” he said.

Also speaking at the event, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammad Idris, praised the successful collaboration between the federal and state governments, saying it has made the revival of the airport possible.

Niger State Governor, Umaru Bago, expressed excitement, describing the development as a catalyst for economic growth. He emphasized the airport’s role in boosting trade, especially in the state’s free trade zone for agricultural processing.

The launch is seen as a major step toward enhancing regional connectivity and opening up new commercial opportunities in the North-Central region.