Minister of State Petroleum Resources (Gas), Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, has commended the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, for his administration’s strides in the aviation sector, describing the maiden international flight from the Victor Attah International Airport as a defining moment for the state.
Ekpo, who joined Governor Eno and other leaders from the state on the inaugural flight from Uyo to Accra, Ghana, on Saturday, said the development is a giant milestone in the state’s economic transformation, noting that the upgrade of the airport to international status is a strategic investment worthy of commendation.
The Minister specifically lauded President Bola Tinubu for granting the approval that paved way for the airport’s elevation, describing the gesture as a demonstration of the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening subnational infrastructure and economic growth across the country.
”For me, this upgrade tells the world that Akwa Ibom is ready for business, ready for tourism and ready to take its rightful place in the global economy. I appreciate Governor Umo Eno for being intentional in developing the aviation sector in our state.
“This achievement is built on years of vision and commitment, but what we are seeing today is a consolidation and expansion of that vision. Governor Umo Eno and his team deserve commendation for taking Akwa Ibom to the next level,” he said.
He further commended the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, for his role in facilitating the realisation of the project, adding that the collaboration between federal and state authorities reflects the importance of synergy in delivering critical national infrastructure.
While urging Akwa Ibom people to remain steadfast with Governor Eno, Ekpo expressed hope that the commencement of international flight operations from Uyo will significantly boost tourism, attract foreign investments, as well as open up new economic and employment opportunities in Akwa Ibom State.
He noted that improved connectivity would enhance trade flows and position the state as a gateway for regional commerce.
The maiden international flight, operated by Ibom Air, departed Uyo for Accra on Saturday, with a return flight scheduled for Sunday, marking the official commencement of cross-border operations from the airport, even as full commercial rollout and commissioning of the new terminal are expected in due course.