Akwa Ibom Airport Int’l status elevates South South as Nigeria’s next tourism powerhouse— Onung
Maureen Aguta
Nigeria’s newest aviation milestone, the Akwa Ibom International Airport in Uyo, is set to become a powerful catalyst for the country’s tourism expansion, industry leaders say.
The facility—recently granted international status by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo—sits beside the state’s domestic terminal and boasts cutting-edge aviation technology, premium lounges, leisure amenities, and modern retail spaces. It is the first purpose-built international airport in the South-South region, positioning Akwa Ibom for unprecedented traffic and visibility.
President of Experience IBOM and Chairman, Board of Trustees of the National Association of Nigeria Tour Operators (NATOP), Mr. Nkereweum Onung, described the airport as a “game-changing enabler” for Nigeria’s cultural tourism and a strategic asset for national development. He praised Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, for “professional, reform-driven leadership” that is reshaping the state’s tourism and hospitality appeal.
Onung—who also served as immediate past President of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN)—said the airport’s full activation would draw international travellers to the South-South, boost visitor traffic, create jobs, and energize cultural and economic activity across the region.
“Pastor Umo Eno has demonstrated the outlook of a cultural tourism ambassador and a strategic reformer,” he said. “His infrastructure vision will not only deepen tourism and hospitality in Akwa Ibom but also drive sustainable economic growth and improved security. At Experience IBOM, we are committed to partnering with the airport management to ensure the facilities are optimally utilized and safeguarded.”
He added that Experience IBOM would soon roll out targeted marketing campaigns with both local and international partners to promote Akwa Ibom—and by extension Nigeria—on the global tourism map. Investments like the Akwa Ibom International Airport, he noted, are vital in opening populous nations like Nigeria to greater travel, commerce, and tourism opportunities, strengthening local economies and community livelihoods.
Onung also applauded Minister Keyamo for the ministry’s strategic interventions and for raising Nigeria’s profile within the global aviation sector.
With its international status now official, stakeholders say the Akwa Ibom International Airport is set to become one of the country’s most influential gateways—linking Nigeria to new markets, new visitors, and new possibilities.