Mustapha, who disclosed this with newsmen during a visit, said he had received a letter from the Chief of Air Staff on the reopening of the airport. 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.
The Borno State Deputy Governor, Alhaji Umar Mustapha, has announced today that the Federal Government has reopened Maiduguri International Airport for commercial purposes.
Mustapha, who disclosed this with newsmen during a visit, said he had received a letter from the Chief of Air Staff on the reopening of the airport. 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.
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.