In a recent development, President Bola Tinubu has given his approval for the renaming of 15 airports across Nigeria. The decision was made to honor prominent figures who have made significant contributions to the nation. The Federal Ministry of Aviation issued a memo dated June 1, 2023, confirming the renaming, with Mrs. Joke Olatunji signing on behalf of the Director of Airport Operations.
The Port-Harcourt International Airport has been renamed after Chief Obafemi Awolowo, the former Premier of the old Western Region. This move pays tribute to his exceptional leadership and indelible impact on Nigeria's history.
Furthermore, the newly constructed Ebonyi State Airport will bear the name of the late Dr. Chuba Wilberforce Okadigbo, who served as the President of the 8th Nigerian Senate. This renaming honors his dedicated service to the country.
Here is the complete list of the airports and their new names:
Akure Airport – Olumuyiwa Bernard Aliu
Benin Airport – Oba Akenzua II
Dutse Airport – Muhammad Nuhu Sanusi
Ebonyi Airport – Chuba W. Okadigbo
Gombe Airport – Brigadier Zakari Maimalari
Ibadan Airport – Samuel Ladoke Akintola
Ilorin Airport – Gen. Tunde Idiagbon
Kaduna Airport – Hassan Usman Katsina
Maiduguri Airport – Muhammadu Buhari
Makurdi Airport – Joseph Sarwuan Tarka
Minna Airport – Mallam Abubakar Imam
Nasarawa Airport – Sheikh Usman Danfodio
Osubi Airport – Alfred Diete Spiff
Port Harcourt Airport – Obafemi Awolowo
Yola Airport – Lamido Aliyu Mustapha
With this renaming initiative, the Nigerian government aims to pay homage to these distinguished individuals who have left an indelible mark on the nation's history and progress