Akwa Ibom State has stepped up final preparations to commence international flight operations at the Victor Attah International Airport, with authorities expressing confidence that the facility will be ready ahead of the planned April commencement date.
The Supervisory Commissioner for Special Duties and Ibom Deep Seaport, Mr Emem Almond Bob, gave the assurance on Thursday after leading officials of the ministry on a comprehensive inspection of the airport complex. The visit formed part of ongoing efforts by the state government to ensure operational readiness and timely completion of the international terminal.
During the inspection, the delegation examined key infrastructure and operational components across the airport. These included terminal access roads, parking facilities, apron and taxiway areas, security fencing, internet connectivity systems, and critical power infrastructure such as transmission lines, transformers, and medium voltage panels.
Speaking after the tour, Mr Bob said the steady progress recorded on site strengthened the state’s confidence in meeting the April target for international flight operations. He noted that contractors and engineers had demonstrated strong commitment to delivering the project within schedule.
He explained that the ministry had earlier held technical sessions with contractors and project engineers to review the status of ongoing works and address any gaps that could affect timely delivery. According to him, continuous engagement and supervision remain essential to maintaining construction standards and ensuring operational readiness.
“As a ministry, our responsibility is to inspect key operational areas, assess progress, identify gaps, and ensure corrective measures are implemented promptly to support seamless commencement of international flights,” he said.
Mr Bob also confirmed that the committee established to oversee the transition of the airport to international status remains active and would continue its oversight responsibilities. The committee is chaired by the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah.
He added that inspections and technical evaluations would continue until all regulatory and operational requirements are fully satisfied ahead of the inaugural international flight.
Chairman of VKS Construction, Engr Oliver Ebong, who conducted the commissioner and his team around the terminal building, said work was progressing steadily across all sections of the facility. He assured that critical installations and finishing works were receiving priority attention and expressed confidence that construction would be completed by the end of March.
The push for international operations at the airport follows the inauguration of a state implementation committee by Governor Umo Eno. The move came after a technical assessment by a Federal Government delegation led by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo, to facilitate the airport’s transition to international service.
Officials present during the inspection included the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Special Duties, Engr Ephraim Udosen, Managing Director of the Airport Development Authority, Mr Uwem Ekanem, Director of Project Implementation and Coordination, Arc Ekawan Alale, Director of Geo Technical Services, Mrs Helen Daniel, and Clark Works for the Terminal Building, Arc Christopher Enyekung.
Authorities say the ongoing inspections and technical reviews are aimed at ensuring the airport meets all operational and regulatory standards required for international aviation services.
