The Senate has called on the Ministry of Aviation to promptly initiate the process of enhancing the Muhammadu Buhari International Airport to facilitate international operations. This decision by the Senate came after deliberation and the adoption of a motion emphasizing the necessity of upgrading the airport to enable international operations during the plenary session on Wednesday.
The motion, which was introduced by Senator Ali Ndume (APC-Borno) and co-sponsored by eight other senators, underscores the pivotal role of airport infrastructure in driving economic growth, attracting foreign direct investments, and fostering socio-economic development.
Senator Ndume emphasized the urgent requirement to transform the airport into an internationally functional facility in the North-East region, equipped with international-standard runways, tarmacs, and other necessary amenities. He pointed out that, among the six geopolitical zones in the country, only the North East lacks an international airport.
Highlighting the fact that Borno shares borders with three countries – Chad, Cameroon, and Niger, Senator Ndume stressed that having an international airport in the region would facilitate the efficient and effective movement of goods and people between Nigeria and the rest of the world. This, he contended, would help reduce the strain on the region’s road infrastructure.
The senator further pointed out that the Maiduguri airport’s ample land area could easily accommodate a standard international airport, providing a significant boost to the tourism sector. He also noted that the upgraded airport would establish essential communication links among various groups in the region.
In conclusion, Senator Ndume highlighted that the airport’s enhancement would attract foreign investments, foster economic development, elevate the quality of life for the region’s inhabitants, and contribute to an increase in the country’s gross domestic product (GDP).
The Senate passed a resolution mandating its aviation committee to oversee and report back within eight weeks on the progress of this initiative.
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