Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has announced the creation of a full-fledged Ministry of Aviation and Airport Development. The new ministry is tasked with managing and overseeing policies, strategies, and programs for aviation development in the state. It will also oversee operations at the Victor Attah International Airport, ensuring that its newly acquired international status is fully maximized and harnessed to its potential.
Governor's Announcement at Victor Attah International Airport
Speaking on arrival at the Victor Attah International Airport from Accra, Ghana, on Sunday, May 3, 2026, Governor Eno mandated the Managing Director of the Ibom Airport Development Company, Engr. Uwem Ekanem, to immediately take charge of the new Ministry pending the appointment of a new Commissioner. The Governor emphasized that the Ministry must ensure effective patronage of the airport and supervise the creation of a robust aviation ecosystem and network to position Akwa Ibom as an aviation hub.
Validation of International Status
Governor Eno further commented on the new status of the airport, stating that the flight from Victor Attah International Airport to Accra International Airport and back has validated the process. He expressed pride, saying, "Today, after all the hard work put into the realization of this moment, here we are, finally back on an international flight from Accra, landing Uyo for the first time in the history of this airport. The prefix international has finally been validated." He added, "We have spared no expense to make this terminal a true marvel of beauty to behold, and we should all be very proud of ourselves as a people."
Encomiums from Dignitaries
Also speaking at the event, the Oku Ibom, His Eminence, Ntenyin (Dr.) Solomon Daniel Etuk, CFR; the Honourable Minister of State for Petroleum (Gas), Obongemem Ekperikpe Ekpo; and Senator Ekong Sampson all poured encomiums on the Governor for this remarkable achievement.
