The Federal Government has officially designated the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport in Minna, Niger State, as the alternative airport to Abuja’s Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.
This was announced by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, during the commissioning of Overland Airways’ commercial flight operations from the airport. According to the minister, the airport’s modern runway is capable of accommodating wide-body aircraft such as Boeing 747s and 777s, making it suitable for international operations.
Keyamo described the airport’s infrastructure as meeting international standards, adding that its location about 150 kilometers from Abuja — makes it a strategic alternative during high traffic periods or maintenance closures at the Abuja airport.
“The Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport in Minna has been underutilized for years despite its capacity and facilities. With this new designation, we are aiming to optimize its use, reduce congestion in Abuja, and enhance air connectivity in northern Nigeria,” Keyamo stated.
Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umar Bago, thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support, noting that the development aligns with the state government’s New Niger Agenda to boost the local economy.
The airport, sitting on 3,000 hectares of land, has undergone significant upgrades, including the renovation of its terminal, expansion of its runway, and the construction of additional infrastructure such as a fuel dump, five-star hotel, road networks, and 500 housing units for aviation personnel.
Overland Airways has already begun operations from the airport, with its inaugural flight marking a new chapter in Minna’s aviation history. The airline has pledged to offer top-tier services with new aircraft equipped with advanced technology.
The designation is expected to improve regional air travel, create job opportunities, and provide a reliable alternative travel hub for passengers in the Federal Capital Territory and surrounding areas.
