For the first time since its construction over four decades ago, the Minna International Airport in Niger State will officially commence formal commercial operations tomorrow, Wednesday, April 23.

The Niger state government has officially announced the launch of scheduled flight operations from the newly renamed Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport, Minna.

This development follows a strategic partnership between New Niger Aviation (NNA), a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) established to manage and enhance Niger State's aviation ecosystem, and Overland Airways Limited.

Alhaji Liman Katamba Kutigi, Chief Operating Officer of NNA, speaks on the importance of the launch, stating: "This initiative represents more than just an air route; it stands as a gateway to new opportunities. Through our collaboration with Overland Airways, we are establishing a benchmark in regional air connectivity, prioritizing safety, reliability, and significant economic benefits."

Kutigi also said that the initiative is part of a broader agenda to position Niger State as a central player in Nigeria’s aviation and logistics sectors. He added: "The journey to make Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport operational has been long and deliberate, from infrastructure compliant with aviation standards.

"We are proud to deliver a world-class airport that reflects Niger State’s potential and ambition. The governor’s commitment has been relentless, and this milestone is just the beginning."

Leadership reports that Captain Edward Boyo, Chief Executive Officer of Overland Airways, also shared the exciting news, confirming that flights would begin on Wednesday.

The new service will connect Minna to Abuja and Lagos, the political and commercial capitals of Nigeria, respectively, offering new regional air connectivity for residents and travellers. This long-awaited development promises to enhance the economic and logistical landscape of Niger State, contributing to the region's growth and connectivity within Nigeria.

Minna airport to serve as alternative to Abuja

The Federal Government has named Minna airport as an alternative to the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.

This announcement was made by Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, during the first commercial flight at the airport in Niger State on Tuesday.

Keyamo explained that the decision was based on the airport’s high-quality facilities, including its runway, and its close location to Abuja.

According to TheCable, Keyamo expressed surprise that the airport had not been used more, given its international-standard facilities.

The minister urged all relevant agencies to work together to ensure smooth passenger handling in Minna whenever there are disruptions at the Abuja airport.

Keyamo also praised the efforts of Niger State Governor, Mohammed Bago, describing his work as impressive.

He said: "This is just the beginning of many more good things to come for the state and its people." Governor Bago, in his speech, promised more projects around the airport to strengthen the state's commitment to aviation growth.

He thanked President Bola Tinubu for his ongoing support and acknowledged the contributions of Keyamo and other stakeholders in making the project a reality. List of international airports in Nigeria

According to the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), here is the full list of international airport in Nigeria.

Murtala Muhammed International Airport: Lagos

Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport: Abuja

Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport - Kano

Port Harcourt International Airport - Port Harcourt

Akanu Ibiam International Airport- Enugu