FG launches flight operations at Bola Tinubu International Airport in Minna

In a significant milestone towards improving air travel connectivity in Nigeria, the Federal Government has inaugurated flight operations at the newly renovated Bola Tinubu International Airport in Minna, Niger State. The airport, which was upgraded to international status in 2020, is expected to serve as a critical aviation hub in the North-Central region of the country.

The launch of flight operations was performed by the Minister of Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika, who was accompanied by other dignitaries, including the Governor of Niger State, Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello, and the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Aviation, Senator Smart Adeyemi. In his remarks, Senator Sirika emphasized the importance of the airport in promoting economic development and enhancing air travel experience in the region.

The Bola Tinubu International Airport in Minna boasts of modern facilities, including a newly constructed terminal building, apron, and runway. The airport is equipped with state-of-the-art navigation and safety equipment, including Instrument Landing Systems (ILS) and Precision Approach Path Indicators (PAPI), which will ensure safe and efficient flight operations.

The launch of flight operations at the airport is expected to boost economic activities in the region, particularly in the areas of agriculture, mining, and tourism. The airport is strategically located near the Kainji National Park, which is a popular tourist destination, and is also close to several major mining sites in the state.

FG launches flight operations at Bola Tinubu International Airport in Minna

In his speech, Governor Abubakar Sani Bello expressed his gratitude to the Federal Government for the investment in the airport, which he described as a "game-changer" for the state's economy. He assured that the state government would continue to support the Federal Government in ensuring the success of the airport.

The Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Captain Hamisu Yadudu, who was also present at the event, stated that the authority would work closely with stakeholders to ensure the airport operates at optimal level. He disclosed that FAAN had already deployed personnel to the airport to manage its operations.

The launch of flight operations at the Bola Tinubu International Airport in Minna is a testament to the Federal Government's commitment to developing the country's aviation sector. The government has been investing heavily in airport infrastructure development and modernization across the country, with the goal of making Nigeria a hub for air travel in West Africa.

As flight operations commence at the airport, passengers can look forward to a more convenient and comfortable travel experience. The airport's proximity to the nation's capital, Abuja, makes it an attractive option for travelers heading to the North-Central region. With the launch of flight operations, the airport is expected to become a major gateway to the region, promoting economic growth and development.

It is important to note that in addition to commercial passenger operations, the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport in Minna has been selected as the location for a $3.2 million Army Aviation Hangar. In March 2024, the Nigerian Army Headquarters revealed that the project plans have been finalized, with financial support from the Pan-African Business Forum as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility efforts. The hangar is projected to house 12 MD530 attack helicopters, 10 TB2 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and 8 Magnus light attack aircraft. These assets will facilitate surveillance, reconnaissance, and patrol operations, thereby improving operational efficiency for personnel stationed in Minna. Additionally, the facility aims to enhance maintenance logistics by decreasing aircraft servicing turnaround times. However, there have been no verified reports confirming whether construction has officially begun.