The announcement was made by Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, during the formal launch of Overland Airways’ commercial operations from the Minna airport.
A Strategic Shift in Aviation Planning
Keyamo’s declaration underscores a broader strategy to decentralize aviation traffic from the Federal Capital Territory and bolster regional infrastructure.
“By the powers conferred on me, I declare Minna Airport as the alternative to Abuja Airport,” the minister stated. “NCAA, FAAN, take note.”
He described the Minna facility as a largely untapped asset that has, until now, remained underutilised despite possessing the infrastructure to handle international air traffic.
“The runway is an international runway; a 747 and a triple seven can use this runway,” Keyamo explained. “Why, over the years, this has been underutilised is still a puzzle.”
Infrastructure Built for Heavy Traffic
The Minna airport boasts a robust runway and other aviation infrastructure capable of handling large aircraft and high passenger volumes. According to Keyamo, both the physical and operational standards of the airport meet international benchmarks, making it an ideal backup for the Abuja airport.
The move is also expected to bring economic benefits to Niger State by increasing flight activity, creating jobs, and stimulating local commerce.
Relief for Abuja, Growth for Minna
The designation of Minna airport as a backup to Abuja is likely to relieve pressure during peak periods or emergencies at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport. Aviation experts have long called for viable alternatives to major terminals across Nigeria to improve flexibility and responsiveness in the air transport sector.
Keyamo emphasized that the government's eyes are now firmly on Minna, not only as a backup facility but as a key regional hub with untapped potential.
Industry Response
With Overland Airways commencing commercial operations from the airport, industry stakeholders see the move as a signal of renewed interest in underused regional airports. The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) are expected to begin formal steps to operationalize the new designation.
Let me know if you'd like this version tailored for publication in a specific outlet or formatted for social media or newsletter use.