The Senate has called upon the federal government to initiate the process of upgrading the Muhammadu Buhari International Airport in Maiduguri, Borno State, to enable international operations.
The Senate specifically urged the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Management, Festus Keyamo, to take prompt action on this resolution.
Furthermore, the Senate mandated its Committee on Aviation to follow up on this matter and report back within eight weeks.
These resolutions were a result of a motion presented by Senator Ali Ndume, who represents Borno South, and was co-sponsored by 11 other lawmakers from different political parties.
While presenting the motion, Senator Ndume, who also serves as the Senate Chief Whip, emphasized that airports meeting international infrastructure standards are instrumental in driving economic growth, attracting foreign direct investment, and promoting socio-economic development in the country.
Senator Ndume pointed out that the North East is the only region without an international airport, whereas Borno State shares borders with three countries: Chad, Cameroon, and Niger.
He argued, “The establishment of an international airport in Maiduguri will facilitate the efficient movement of goods and people from Nigeria and around the world, relieving the pressure on the region’s road infrastructure.”
Senator Ndume expressed his hope that upgrading the Borno airport for international operations “will boost the tourism sector and provide a vital communication link among different groups within the region.”
