The Akwa Ibom State Government has announced the commencement of international flight operations from Victor Attah International Airport, Uyo, with a maiden flight scheduled to connect Uyo, Nigeria, to Accra, Ghana.
The Commissioner for Information, Dr. Aniekan Umanah, in a statement announced that, “the Akwa Ibom State Government hereby announces the maiden international flight from Victor Attah International Airport, Uyo, to Kotoka International Airport, Accra, Ghana, on Saturday, May 2, 2026.”
According to Umanah, the flight will be operated by Ibom Air, with departure from Uyo on Saturday, May 2, 2026, and a return service scheduled for Sunday, May 3, 2026.
The development follows Presidential approval for the upgrade of the airport to international status, alongside investments by the administration of Governor Umo Eno to provide the required technical and infrastructural facilities.
The Commissioner described the development as a landmark achievement, noting that “this historic milestone represents a significant step in the State’s strategic drive to expand its aviation capacity, enhance international connectivity, and position Akwa Ibom as a preferred destination for tourism and investment.”
He further clarified that while the maiden flight signals the start of international operations, “the official opening of the new terminal building and full commercial flight schedules will be announced in due course.”
Commissioner Umanah also conveyed appreciation to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for granting approval for the upgrade, as well as to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, for his role in facilitating the process.
In addition, the Government Spokesperson acknowledged the contributions of past administrations, stating that “the Government and people of Akwa Ibom State also appreciate the contributions of former governors of the State for their pioneering roles in the development of the aviation sector and reiterate their commitment to the sustained development of the aviation ecosystem for the economic advancement of the State.”
The maiden international flight is expected to open new economic corridors for Akwa Ibom State, strengthening regional integration, facilitating trade and tourism, and enhancing the State’s attractiveness to investors, as it takes a decisive step onto the global aviation map.