New International Status for Victor Attah Airport: A Major Boost to Nigeria Tourism
Key Points
- 1Victor Attah International Airport (QUO) was officially designated for international operations by Minister Festus Keyamo in late 2025.
- 2Full international flight operations are targeted to begin by the first quarter of 2026.
- 3The facility features a 3.6km runway and a world-class Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility designed for heavy commercial aircraft.
- 4Tourism leaders project the airport will transform cultural tourism in Nigeria's South-south economic region, creating jobs and stimulating trade.
The newly designated Victor Attah International Airport (QUO) in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, is a major enabler for Nigeria's cultural tourism growth.
Mr. Nkereweum Onung, President of Experience IBOM, highlighted the airport’s strategic importance. He said the facility will attract travelers from across the world. This expansion will boost cultural tourism opportunities within the South-south economic region.
Strategic Infrastructure and Designation
The airport, formerly known as Akwa Ibom International Airport, was officially designated for international flight operations by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, in late 2025.
This designation allows the airport to process international passengers. Full international operations are targeted to begin by the first quarter of 2026.
Victor Attah International Airport is the first of its kind in the South-south economic region. The facility boasts cutting-edge technology and a new international terminal. It features five-star lounges, recreational amenities, and modern shopping arcades.
Key Aviation Facilities
The airport meets international standards for large aircraft. It has a runway of over three kilometers (3,600 meters). It also houses a world-class Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility. This MRO facility is designed to service heavy commercial aircraft, including the Boeing 747. This capability is a standard requirement for major international hubs.
Tourism and Economic Impact
Onung praised Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, for his strategic vision. He noted the Governor’s infrastructure initiatives enhance tourism and hospitality. These initiatives also serve as sustainable drivers of economic growth.
Infrastructure investments like the Akwa Ibom International Airport open Nigeria to expanded travel and commerce. This directly boosts local community development. The new status is expected to stimulate socio-economic and tourism-related trade, creating jobs.
- Experience IBOM tourism promotion will launch marketing campaigns soon.
- These campaigns will promote Akwa Ibom and Nigeria on the global tourism stage.
- The Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, was also commended for elevating Nigeria’s global aviation presence.
According to IATA data, aviation-supported tourism contributes significantly to Nigeria's GDP. The new international gateway is poised to increase this contribution. It offers easier access to the region's cultural heritage and attractions.
For more commercial aviation news and industry updates, visit flying.flights.
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