FG Designates Tinubu International Airport, Minna, as Alternative to Abuja

Abuja, Nigeria – The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially designated the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport in Minna, the capital of Niger State, as the primary alternative airport for flight operations during the upcoming temporary closure of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja. This strategic decision aims to minimize disruption to air travel while essential maintenance work is carried out on the Abuja airport's runway and associated facilities.
The announcement was made earlier today by the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, following extensive consultations with relevant stakeholders in the aviation industry, including airline operators, regulatory agencies, and security services. The decision to utilize the Minna airport underscores the government's commitment to ensuring seamless air transportation across the country, even when critical infrastructure upgrades necessitate temporary adjustments.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, in a press briefing held in Abuja, stated that the choice of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport in Minna was based on several key factors, including its adequate runway length and width, the availability of essential navigational aids, sufficient parking space for aircraft, and the capacity of its terminal building to handle the anticipated increase in passenger traffic. He also highlighted the ongoing upgrades and improvements at the Minna airport to further enhance its operational efficiency and passenger comfort.
"The temporary closure of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja is necessary to allow for crucial maintenance work on its critical infrastructure, particularly the runway, which is vital for the safety and efficiency of flight operations," Minister Keyamo explained. "During this period, the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport in Minna will serve as the alternative hub for both domestic and international flights that would normally operate into and out of Abuja."
The Minister assured the public that all necessary arrangements are being put in place to ensure a smooth transition of flight operations to Minna. This includes the deployment of additional security personnel, the provision of adequate transportation links between Minna and Abuja, and the enhancement of passenger facilitation services at the Minna airport terminal. He also indicated that the government is working closely with airline operators to adjust their schedules and inform passengers about the temporary change in airport operations.
Furthermore, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has been directed to work round the clock to ensure that all facilities at the Minna airport are fully operational and meet international safety and security standards. This includes the calibration of navigational aids, the upgrading of lighting systems, and the provision of efficient baggage handling services. FAAN is also expected to deploy additional staff to Minna to manage the anticipated increase in passenger flow.
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the regulatory body for the aviation industry in Nigeria, will play a crucial role in overseeing the temporary relocation of flight operations. The NCAA will ensure that all airlines operating to and from Minna during this period adhere to safety regulations and maintain the highest standards of operational efficiency. The authority will also conduct regular inspections of the Minna airport facilities to ensure compliance.
Airline operators have been informed of the temporary change and are expected to communicate the new arrangements to their passengers. This may involve adjustments to flight schedules, changes in airport codes on tickets, and providing clear guidance on transportation options between Abuja and Minna. Passengers are advised to check with their respective airlines for the latest updates regarding their flights.
The government acknowledges that the temporary relocation of flight operations may cause some inconvenience to travelers, but emphasizes that the maintenance work on the Abuja airport is essential for the long-term safety and sustainability of air travel in the country. The choice of Minna as the alternative airport is aimed at minimizing disruption and providing a viable alternative for passengers.
To further ease the transition, the Federal Government is also exploring options to improve road connectivity between Abuja and Minna. This may include enhanced security along the route and the provision of shuttle services to facilitate the movement of passengers. Details of these arrangements will be communicated to the public in due course.
The duration of the temporary closure of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja is expected to be for a specific period, the details of which will be officially announced following a thorough assessment of the scope of the maintenance work required. The government has assured that the work will be carried out as expeditiously as possible to minimize the period of disruption.
The designation of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport in Minna as the alternative to Abuja's primary airport marks a significant logistical undertaking. It requires seamless coordination between various government agencies, airline operators, and other stakeholders in the aviation sector. The success of this temporary arrangement will be crucial in demonstrating Nigeria's capacity to manage critical infrastructure upgrades while ensuring the continuity of essential services.
The people of Niger State have expressed their readiness to welcome the increased activity at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport. The temporary surge in air traffic is expected to have some economic benefits for the state, including increased patronage of local businesses and the creation of temporary employment opportunities.
In conclusion, the Federal Government's designation of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport in Minna as the alternative to the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja during its temporary closure is a strategic move aimed at ensuring the smooth flow of air travel. With concerted efforts from all stakeholders, the government is optimistic that the temporary arrangement will be managed effectively, minimizing inconvenience to passengers while essential maintenance work is completed in Abuja, ultimately contributing to a safer and more efficient aviation sector in Nigeria. Passengers are urged to stay informed through official channels and their respective airlines for updates on flight schedules and airport operations.
Source@The guardian