The current condition of Benin Airport has raised
concerns among prominent Nigerians, prompting calls for the Minister of
Aviation and Aerospace Development, Olorogun Festus Keyamo, CON, SAN, to
initiate plans for the expansion and modernization of this historic airport,
one of the oldest in Nigeria.
In a media briefing held in Abuja on January 23, 2025,
Mr. Chris Omoaghe, the Special Adviser on Special Projects and Duties to the
Minister, highlighted the airport’s rich history.
Constructed in 1956 by the former Public Works
Department (PWD), the airport underwent significant upgrades between 1975 and
1978 before being officially handed over to the Nigerian Airports Authority
(NAA).
“In 2007, the airport was renovated and expanded to
accommodate larger aircraft and increase passenger capacity,” Omoaghe
explained.
“However, there is an urgent need to remodel the
airport to align with the rising commercial activities in the state. Benin City
serves as a vital gateway to the eastern, south-south, and northern regions of
Nigeria.”
Omoaghe emphasized that it is essential to enhance the
airport’s facilities to support its evolving role in the Nigerian economy.
The Minister has acknowledged this necessity and has
assured that work will commence shortly at the Benin City Airport, as well as
at other airports with similar concerns nationwide.
This initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed
Tinubu’s objective to elevate the aviation sector in Nigeria, a vision
championed by the Minister.
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