Akwa Ibom State has strengthened its regional aviation and economic integration agenda with the commencement of scheduled commercial international flights between Uyo and Accra by Ibom Air.
Delivering his commitment to operationalise the route before the end of June 2026, Governor Eno joined passengers aboard the inaugural commercial flight, underscoring confidence in the state-owned airline and the aviation infrastructure developed by the state.
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Speaking during the flight, the governor said, “We give God all the glory for yet another milestone in the aviation and tourism development of our state. Today, we have commenced scheduled commercial flights between Uyo and Accra on Thursdays and Sundays for a start, allowing the flying public to enjoy the premium services offered by Ibom Air.”
He added: “More frequencies will follow as we plan to spread into other markets. This is all part of our robust tourism development plan aimed at opening up Akwa Ibom for business, investment and leisure.”
The inaugural operation also reflected the state’s investment in aviation manpower development, with Second Officer Mfoniso Mkpong, among pilots recently trained by the Akwa Ibom State Government at the Airbus Pilot Training Academy in Angoulême, France, serving as pilot for the flight.
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Ibom Air, Mr. George Uriesi, described the operation as a defining milestone for the airline and Nigeria’s aviation industry.
He disclosed that the airline successfully transited passengers between Abuja and Accra through Uyo, demonstrating the airport’s growing role as a regional aviation hub.
According to him, “The world-class terminal offers travellers a dignified airport experience and reflects Governor Eno’s commitment to building a modern aviation ecosystem.”
The commencement of scheduled Uyo-Accra services fulfils the commitment made by Governor Eno during the maiden international flight on May 2, 2026, while advancing the state’s long-term strategy to position Akwa Ibom as a regional hub for aviation, tourism, trade and investment.
The new service is expected to deepen trade, tourism, investment and cross-border connectivity while reinforcing the Victor Attah International Airport as an international gateway serving travellers within Nigeria and the West African sub-region.
