Akwa Ibom State Confirms Ibom Air International Debut with Uyo to Accra Flight Service

Akwa Ibom State announces Ibom Air's first international flight from Uyo to Accra on May 2, 2026, following presidential approval for airport upgrades.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 28, 2026, 8:34 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from The Sun Nigeria

Inaugural International Service Set for West African Expansion

The Akwa Ibom state government has officially confirmed the commencement of international flight operations for its state owned carrier, Ibom Air. The maiden voyage is scheduled to depart from Victor Attah International Airport in Uyo, destined for Kotoka International Airport in Accra, Ghana, on Saturday, May 2, 2026. According to a statement issued by the Commissioner of Information, Hon Aniekan Umanah, this launch represents a finalized timeline following an earlier postponement from April 1, which was caused by ongoing technical requirements at the airport’s international wing.

Strategic Upgrades and Presidential Regulatory Approval

The transition to international operations was made possible by recent presidential approval for the facility’s status upgrade. Governor Pastor Umo Eno has overseen concerted investments into the technical and infrastructural framework of the airport to meet global aviation standards. The state government expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, for their roles in facilitating the regulatory environment necessary for Akwa Ibom to operate as an international aviation gateway.

Aviation as a Catalyst for Regional Economic Growth

Government officials view this historic milestone as a cornerstone of a broader strategic drive to enhance international connectivity. By establishing a direct link between Uyo and the Ghanaian capital, the state aims to position itself as a primary destination for foreign investment and regional tourism. The information commissioner noted that the expansion of aviation capacity is a deliberate effort to diversify the state’s economy and leverage its flagship airline to attract global commerce into the Niger Delta region.