Maiduguri, one of the most troubled states by the Boko Haram insurgents may be heading for some reliefs as the international airport in the state capital has been opened to traffic.
Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Saleh Dunoma announced today that the just re-opened Maiduguri International Airport is now free for commercial operations.
A statement by the FAAN’s General Manager, Corporate Affairs, Yakubu Dati, in Lagos, quoted the Managing Director as assuring Nigerians and airport customers that security had been beefed up within and outside the airport for passengers’ safety.
It would be recalled that operations at the airport were suspended in December 2014 after which the joint military task force took over the airport following a raid on nearby military units by Boko Haram.
Dunoma assured staff working at the airport, of management’s support as they operated in the midst of security challenges.
The FAAN chief urged them to keep supporting the federal government, especially the armed agencies that were using their facilities.
“I urge FAAN workers to remain committed to successful operations as the Maiduguri Airport opens for commercial operations.”
It also quoted Dunoma as commending the staff for ensuring that facilities and equipment of the authority were maintained throughout the period the airport was shut down.
The statement called on them to make safety, security and passenger comfort, their key objectives in line with the mandate of the Authority. [myad]
