Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has announced an ambitious plan to transform Maiduguri’s Muhammadu Buhari International Airport into a regional cargo hub, aimed at driving economic growth in Nigeria’s north-east region.

Keyamo shared the vision during a visit to the airport on Thursday, accompanied by key aviation stakeholders, including Olubunmi Kuku, Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN); Farouk Umar, Managing Director of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA); and Chris Najomo, Director-General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). Representatives from agencies such as NiMet, Nigeria Customs Service, DSS, Immigration, and NDLEA also participated.

According to a statement by Keyamo’s media adviser, Tunde Moshood, the visit was part of preparations for the airport’s upgrade to enable international travel and cargo operations, with January 1, 2025, set as the target for completion. Describing the airport as a symbol of resilience and growth for the north-east, Keyamo highlighted its cutting-edge facilities, including a world-class runway, as critical components for regional development.

“With its world-class runway and state-of-the-art facilities, the airport will serve as a regional cargo hub, providing vital support to the north-east economy and enhancing its role in international trade and travel,” Keyamo said.

Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State lauded Keyamo’s leadership and thanked President Bola Tinubu for prioritizing infrastructure development in the region. Zulum assured that the state government would collaborate with the federal government to ensure the airport’s successful transition to international operations.

The visit also served as an opportunity to address logistical challenges and pave the way for smooth operations once the upgrade is complete.“The federal government remains unwavering in its commitment to advancing Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure, fostering regional development, and promoting national cohesion,” Moshood noted.

The collaboration between the federal and Borno State governments is expected to position Maiduguri as a pivotal player in international trade, strengthening the north-east’s economic prospects and enhancing connectivity.