The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, along with members of a Federal Government Technical Committee, has carried out an on-site evaluation of the facilities at Victor Attah International Airport, Uyo, as part of the effort to elevate the airport to a full international status. 

Mr. Tunde Moshood, Keyamo’s Special Adviser on Media and Communications, stated that in order to expedite the inspection process, the delegation was split into three technical groups, with each group exploring different areas: the terminal building, the aerodrome and control tower, and the runway/airside facilities. 

Moshood mentioned that Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State facilitated a smooth and well-organized visit throughout the inspection. 

The statement notes, "The inspection event, led by the Minister, included a strong delegation made up of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Dr. Yakubu Kofarmata; the Director General of the NCAA, Capt. Chris Najomo; the Director of Air Transport Management in the Ministry, Ahmed Tijani; the Director of Aerodrome, NCAA, Engr. Godwin Balang, along with other senior officials from the Ministry and relevant aviation authorities. 

“To streamline the inspection procedure, the delegation was organized into three specialized groups before starting the exercise, which was officially overseen by the Honorable Minister. Each group visited specific areas of professional focus, including the terminal building, the aerodrome and control tower, and the runway/airside facilities. The Akwa Ibom State Government, under the accommodating leadership of the state's top official, ensured a smooth and coordinated inspection visit.

“Following the conclusion of the inspection, the Minister and members of the senior team expressed their strong approval of the quality, range, and speed of work provided by the Akwa Ibom State Government under Pastor Umo. Special praise was given to the airport’s design, which allows it to function as a comprehensive aviation hub, efficiently managing passenger traffic from domestic to international connections. 

“With its Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facilities and cutting-edge terminal infrastructure, Victor Attah International Airport embodies world-class standards, positioning Uyo as an emerging aviation center with considerable potential for enhanced connectivity, increased investment, and sustained economic growth. 

“In his remarks, the Minister announced that a technical committee has been formed to guarantee the prompt and efficient execution of the project. He also instructed that committee members should mobilize to the site starting in the first week of January 2026 to diligently expedite all outstanding measures necessary for the successful upgrade of the airport to full international operations.”