Gov Umo Eno Applauds Restoration of Night Flights at Victor Attah International Airport

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has commended the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) and the Board of Ibom Airport Development Company for successfully restoring night flight operations at the Victor Attah International Airport, Uyo.

The governor had earlier issued an ultimatum to his Senior Special Assistant/Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Ibom Airport Development Company, Mr. Uwem Ekanem, and the Board to ensure the airfield lighting system was fully restored before September 30, 2025.

In a statement issued on Thursday by his Chief Press Secretary, Ekerete Udoh, Governor Eno expressed delight that the task was completed within the stipulated timeframe.

“His Excellency congratulates the MD/CEO, Mr. Uwem Ekanem, the staff, and the Board for rising to the occasion and delivering on the assignment within schedule,” the statement read.

With the overhaul and calibration of navigational aids and the restoration of airfield lighting, the previous sunrise-to-sunset restrictions have been lifted, allowing immediate resumption of night operations at the airport.

Governor Eno also appreciated the role played by NAMA in facilitating the exercise, assuring that the state government would continue to fund aviation projects, including the Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility and the international terminal, ahead of the Yuletide season.

The statement further emphasized the government’s focus on tourism under the ARISE Agenda, noting that the resumption of night flights would enhance smooth operations for Ibom Air and boost access for tourists and visitors.

“Tourism remains a major pillar of the ARISE Agenda. With the planned commissioning of Arise Resorts in December and other ongoing tourism projects, restoring night operations ensures seamless connectivity for Ibom Air passengers and positions Akwa Ibom as Nigeria’s emerging tourism hub,” it added.

Earlier in July, Governor Eno had approved N1.194 billion for the upgrade of critical facilities at the airport and gave management an eight-week deadline for the resumption of night flights, warning that failure to deliver would attract sanctions.