Akwa Ibom International Airport Status Announced

Nkereweum Onung described the Akwa Ibom International Airport as a major boost to tourism. Onung serves as President of Experience IBOM and Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the National Association of Nigeria Tour Operators. He made his statement on Tuesday. The airport operates in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. It handles domestic and international flights.

Onung said the airport's current status supports tourism growth. He noted increased flight connectivity. More airlines now serve routes to Lagos and Abuja. International carriers have shown interest in direct flights. This development comes as Nigeria's aviation sector expands. The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria reported 16.9 million passenger movements in 2023. That figure marks a 20% increase from 2022.

Why It Matters for Nigerian Tourism

The airport matters because it connects Akwa Ibom to key markets. Tourists can reach the state more easily. Akwa Ibom offers attractions like the Ibom Plaza and the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium. The state government promotes cultural festivals too. These include the Ibom Christmas Festival. Better airport access could increase visitor numbers.

Tourism contributes to Nigeria's economy. The National Bureau of Statistics reported tourism generated ₦2.3 trillion in 2023. That equals about $1.8 billion USD. The sector employs over 1.2 million Nigerians. Improved airport infrastructure supports these jobs. It also helps businesses in hospitality and transport.

Onung leads NATOP, which represents over 200 tour operators. His organization advocates for tourism policies. NATOP works with the Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation. The NTDC implements national tourism strategies. Airport improvements align with these efforts.

What Businesses Should Watch

Businesses should watch airline expansion plans. Air Peace and Arik Air currently serve Akwa Ibom. Both airlines may add more flights. International carriers like Ethiopian Airlines could launch new routes. The airport requires permits from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority. The NCAA ensures safety standards. Airlines must secure slots and operational approvals.

Hotel chains should monitor passenger growth. Companies like Transcorp Hotels and Tourist Company of Nigeria operate in the region. They could expand properties. The Akwa Ibom State Government offers incentives for tourism investments. These include tax breaks for new hotels. The state's 2024 budget allocates ₦15 billion to tourism development. That equals about $11.5 million USD.

Tour operators should prepare for higher demand. NATOP members can create packages for Akwa Ibom. They might partner with airlines for bundled deals. The Nigerian Export-Import Bank provides financing for tourism projects. NEXIM offers loans up to ₦500 million. That equals about $385,000 USD. Businesses can apply through the bank's tourism support program.

Infrastructure and Economic Impact

The airport's upgrade involves runway extensions. The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria manages these projects. FAAN completed phase one in 2022. Phase two will finish by late 2025. The total cost is ₦45 billion. That equals about $34.6 million USD. Funding comes from the federal government and private partners.

Improved infrastructure supports cargo operations too. Akwa Ibom produces agricultural goods like cassava and palm oil. The airport can ship these products. The Nigerian Ports Authority handles cargo logistics. The NPA works with FAAN on airport cargo facilities. This creates opportunities for agro-export businesses.

Tourism growth depends on security. The Nigeria Police Force and Department of State Services provide protection. They patrol airports and tourist sites. Businesses should consider security costs. The average security budget for a mid-sized hotel is ₦5 million per year. That equals about $3,850 USD.

Challenges and Opportunities

Challenges remain. Power supply issues affect airport operations. The Transmission Company of Nigeria works to stabilize electricity. Businesses may need backup generators. Fuel costs also impact airlines. Jet A1 fuel prices rose 30% in 2023. Airlines might pass these costs to passengers.

Opportunities exist in digital services. Travel tech companies can develop booking platforms for Akwa Ibom. Startups like Hotels.ng and Wakanow already operate in Nigeria. They could expand to the state. The Nigerian Communications Commission reports 85% internet penetration in Akwa Ibom. That supports online tourism services.

The airport's success requires collaboration. State and federal agencies must coordinate. The Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Culture and Tourism leads local efforts. It partners with the Federal Ministry of Information and Culture. Together they promote destinations. Businesses should engage with these agencies for support.

Onung's statement highlights tourism potential. The airport serves as a gateway. It connects Akwa Ibom to Nigeria and beyond. Tourism growth can boost the local economy. Businesses should act now to capture opportunities.