Nigeria’s newest aviation landmark, the Akwa Ibom International Airport in Uyo, has been widely applauded as a major catalyst for the country’s tourism and socio-economic growth. The airport, recently designated an international facility by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, stands as the first of its kind in the South-South region.
Located adjacent to the state’s domestic terminal, the airport features cutting-edge aviation technology, world-class passenger lounges, modern recreational spaces, and state-of-the-art shopping arcades. Tourism stakeholders say the facility represents a new era of enhanced travel connectivity and global access for the region.
President of Experience IBOM and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the National Association of Nigeria Tour Operators (NATOP), Mr. Nkereweum Onung, described the airport as a transformative enabler of cultural tourism in Nigeria. He praised Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, for his strategic vision in positioning the state as a major tourism destination.
Onung, who is also the immediate past President of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), noted that the airport would attract travellers from around the world, thereby expanding cultural tourism prospects, creating jobs, and stimulating broader socio-economic growth. He emphasised that the airport’s presence would deepen tourism-related trade across the South-South region.
He described Governor Umo Eno as a “professional, cultural tourism ambassador, and strategic reformer,” stating that the governor’s infrastructure projects are sustainable drivers of improved security, tourism development, and hospitality growth. Onung added that Experience IBOM looks forward to collaborating with the airport management to ensure the effective use and protection of the new facilities.
Onung further revealed that Experience IBOM will soon launch major marketing campaigns in partnership with local and international stakeholders to promote Akwa Ibom—and Nigeria—on the global tourism stage. He noted that strategic infrastructure investments like the Akwa Ibom International Airport open populous destinations to expanded travel, commerce, and cultural exchange, while boosting community development.
He also commended the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, for his leadership and commitment to elevating Nigeria’s visibility within the global aviation community.
