FG launches flight operations at Bola Tinubu International Airport in Minna 

Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, who officiated the launch, described the airport as a strategic alternative to the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Keyamo stated that the government was finalising plans to deploy Customs, Immigration, Police, NDLEA, and other key agencies to the facility to ensure seamless passenger processing in the event of operational disruptions in Abuja.

“The Federal Government has inaugurated flight operations of Overland Airways at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport in Minna, Niger state. 

“Mr Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation and Airspace Development, inaugurated the flight operation in Minna on Wednesday. He said that the newly reconstructed airport would be an alternative to Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja,” the NAN report read in part.

Keyamo also commended the political will demonstrated by Governor Umaru Bago, noting that the airport would enhance investment, create jobs, and significantly contribute to Niger State’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), particularly in the agriculture sector.

In his remarks, Governor Bago expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his support in bringing the airport project to fruition.

He said the airport sits on 3,000 hectares of land and is undergoing several upgrades, including the renovation of the terminal and runway, construction of a modern terminal, and development of an aviation estate with 500 housing units.

He reiterated the government’s commitment to improving citizens’ welfare and noted that food prices were gradually declining due to strategic interventions by the Tinubu administration.

Also speaking at the event, Capt. Edward Boyo, Founder and Managing Director of Overland Airways, assured the public of the airline’s commitment to providing excellent service. He also called for continued stakeholder support to sustain the momentum.

Beyond commercial passenger services, the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport in Minna has also been designated as the site for a $3.2 million Army Aviation Hangar.

The facility is also intended to improve maintenance logistics by reducing turnaround time for aircraft servicing. However, there have been no confirmed reports indicating whether construction has officially commenced.