The Akwa Ibom State Government has announced that the maiden international flight from Victor Attah International Airport, Uyo, to Kotoka International Airport, Accra, Ghana, will take off on Saturday, May 2, 2026, following presidential approval upgrading the airport to international status.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Governor Umo Eno described the development as a major milestone in the state’s aviation growth.
“I am pleased to announce that following Presidential approval for the upgrade of Victor Attah International Airport, Uyo, to international status, the maiden international flight from Uyo to Kotoka International Airport, Accra, Ghana, is set to take off on Saturday, May 2, 2026,” the governor said.
The inaugural flight will be operated by Ibom Air, with a return trip scheduled for Sunday, May 3, 2026.
Eno noted that the development underscores the state’s commitment to expanding aviation capacity, improving global connectivity, and positioning Akwa Ibom as a hub for tourism, trade, and investment.
He also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the airport’s upgrade, as well as the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, for his support. The governor further acknowledged past state leaders for laying the foundation of the aviation sector.
Similarly, the State Commissioner for Information, Aniekan Umanah, described the development as historic, noting that it represents a significant leap in the state’s strategy to boost international connectivity and attract investment.
He reiterated the government’s appreciation to the President and the Minister for their roles in actualising the project, while commending former governors for their contributions to the state’s aviation development.
The announcement follows earlier indications in December 2025 that Ibom Air would commence international operations in April 2026, after Keyamo inspected the facility alongside the governor and expressed satisfaction with its readiness.
During the inspection, the minister noted that Akwa Ibom had made significant progress ahead of schedule in preparing the airport for international operations.
Margaret ABAH
