The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially designated the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport in Nasarawa State as an alternative airport to the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA) in Abuja. This strategic move aims to enhance aviation resilience, improve air traffic management, and ensure continuity of flight operations in case of emergencies or congestion at the NAIA.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, made the announcement during a facility tour of the new airport, which is nearing completion. According to him, the decision is part of a broader national strategy to decentralize aviation infrastructure and strengthen Nigeria’s air transport capacity.
“The Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport is not just a symbol of progress for Nasarawa State, but also a crucial component of our national aviation framework,” Keyamo said. “It will serve as a viable alternative to the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, especially during periods of maintenance, bad weather conditions, or other unforeseen disruptions.”
Enhanced Regional Connectivity
Located in Lafia, the capital of Nasarawa State, the new airport is strategically positioned just over an hour’s drive from Abuja. It is expected to relieve some of the pressure on NAIA, which has seen a significant surge in passenger traffic in recent years.
The new airport features a modern terminal building, a 2.7-kilometer runway capable of handling mid-size aircraft, a control tower, hangar facilities, and customs and immigration units to support international operations. Aviation authorities say the facility meets international standards and will be fully equipped for commercial flights once operational clearance is given.
The Nasarawa State Government, under Governor Abdullahi Sule, has been instrumental in championing the airport project, which was initiated as part of the state’s economic transformation plan. The airport is designed to serve not only the state’s growing commercial interests but also to support emergency landings, cargo operations, and special flights.
Minister Applauds Nasarawa State’s Initiative
During his visit, Minister Keyamo commended the state government’s foresight and commitment to infrastructure development, noting that the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport would play a vital role in boosting the local economy, tourism, and agro-export business.
“This is a classic example of a state aligning with the federal vision for sustainable aviation,” the minister said. “With proper coordination between the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), and other stakeholders, this airport will greatly complement the federal infrastructure around Abuja.”
He added that a technical evaluation is ongoing to finalize the licensing process, while airspace navigational aids are being installed to ensure flight safety and operational readiness.
Governor Sule Welcomes FG’s Recognition
Reacting to the federal government’s designation, Governor Abdullahi Sule expressed gratitude and pledged continuous support to make the airport fully functional. He said the development aligns with the administration’s goal to make Nasarawa a commercial hub in the North-Central region.
“Today marks another important milestone in our journey to integrate Nasarawa into Nigeria’s broader aviation network,” Sule said. “We are grateful to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Federal Ministry of Aviation for this recognition. We see this airport as a gateway to development, not just for our people but for the entire region.”
The governor also assured that the state government would work closely with federal aviation bodies to resolve any outstanding technical or administrative requirements needed for full operationalization.
Stakeholders React
Aviation experts and stakeholders have welcomed the move, describing it as timely and forward-looking. According to Captain Musa Adamu, a retired pilot and aviation consultant, “Having an alternative airport to Abuja is long overdue. This will not only reduce congestion but also provide a critical safety net during emergencies.”
Travel and logistics companies have also lauded the decision, noting that it opens new opportunities for air travel, cargo logistics, and tourism within the North-Central corridor.
“The economic impact of having a second airport close to Abuja is significant. It will reduce delays, enhance competitiveness, and offer passengers more options,” said Abiola Adebayo, CEO of Airlink Travel Solutions.
Operational Timeline and Future Plans
Although the airport is structurally complete, final approval for commercial operations is still pending, with regulatory inspections and staff deployment currently underway. The Ministry of Aviation has assured that once the required certifications are concluded, commercial and charter operations will commence.
Minister Keyamo further hinted at plans to integrate the new airport into the regional cargo hub network and make it a launchpad for agricultural exports from Nasarawa and neighboring states.
“As Nigeria aims to become a regional aviation leader, facilities like the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport will play a key role,” Keyamo stated.
Conclusion
The designation of Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport as an alternative to Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s aviation development agenda. It reflects a growing awareness of the need for resilient infrastructure, regional balance, and forward-thinking policies in the aviation sector.
As the airport prepares for operational takeoff, all eyes are on how it will complement the federal capital’s aviation activities while fostering regional economic integration and development.
