The Akwa Ibom State Government has announced that the first international flight from Victor Attah International Airport, Uyo, will depart for Kotoka International Airport, Accra, Ghana, on Saturday, May 2, 2026.
The flight, to be operated by Ibom Air, follows presidential approval for the upgrade of the Uyo airport to international status.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, the Commissioner for Information, Hon. Aniekan Umanah, said the development followed investments by the administration of Governor Umo Eno in technical and infrastructural facilities required for international operations.
According to the statement, the maiden flight will depart Uyo for Accra on Saturday, May 2, while the return flight is scheduled for Sunday, May 3, 2026.
The government described the flight as a major milestone in Akwa Ibom’s effort to expand aviation capacity, improve international connectivity and position the state as a preferred destination for tourism and investment.
It said the commencement of international operations from Uyo marks a new phase in the state’s aviation development, although the official opening of the new terminal building and full commercial flight schedules will be announced later.
The state government thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for granting the approval and commended the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, for his role in the process.
It also acknowledged the contributions of former governors of Akwa Ibom State, noting their roles in the development of the aviation sector.
The government said it remains committed to building a strong aviation ecosystem to support economic growth in the state.
