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The Borno State Deputy Governor, Alhaji Umar Mustapha, has announced today that the Federal Government has reopened Maiduguri International Airport for commercial purposes.
Mustapha disclosed this with newsmen during a visit saying that he had received a letter from the Chief of Air Staff on the reopening of the airport.
Mustapha added that the reopening of the airport was the beginning of “reprieve” coming the way of the people of Borno. He expressed hope that with the renewed efforts by the Nigerian military, Boko Haram’s insurgency would gradually be surmounted.
"I am happy to inform you that Maiduguri airport has been reopened. We have received a letter from the Chief of Air Force to that effect. In fact, a commercial airline has indicated interest to start [to] fly on Friday,'' he confirmed.
He commended the military for their efforts, dedication and patriotism even in the face of daunting challenges. He also appealed to the people of the state to continue to support the military in their counter-insurgency operation.
The airport was shut down on December 2, 2013 following a deadly attack on a military base and air force base near the airport. Since then the airport has been strictly limited to official uses.
Earlier, the Chief of Air Staff, Olusola Amosu had hinted journalists that the Airport would soon be reopened. Amosu told journalists in Maiduguri yesterday that the decision to re-open the airport was based on a request by the Nigeria Airport Management Authority (NAMA).
“NAMA wrote a letter to us recently wanting an assurance that they can operate the airport between 6a.m. and 6 p.m.” Amosu said.
He further said that NAF had already written back with a guarantee that they could operate as requested.
“We have given the assurances and very soon, the airport will be re-opened,” he had said. “But we may decide to advise for its closure anytime we find it expedient to do so because of ongoing military operation on that axis.”
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