Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has charged the inter-ministerial committee overseeing the international status of the Victor Attah International Airport to ensure the facility begins full operations by the first week of April 2026.

The governor gave the directive while inaugurating the committee shortly after signing the ₦1.585 trillion 2026 budget into law during an enlarged State Executive Council meeting in Uyo on Monday.

Recall that the Federal Government last year upgraded the Victor Attah Airport to international status, paving the way for the commencement of international passenger operations. Governor Eno said all outstanding requirements must be completed on schedule to meet the April take-off date.

According to a statement issued on Tuesday by the Commissioner for Information, Aniekan Umanah, the inauguration of the committee reflects the administration’s determination to strengthen governance structures and fast-track critical infrastructure projects across the state.

The Secretary chairs the Inter-Ministerial Committee on International Airport Status Implementation to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah. Other members include the Commissioner for Finance and Special Duties, Emem Bob; Managing Director of Ibom Air, George Uriesi; Permanent Secretary, Special Duties, Engr. Ephraim Udosen, and the Accountant-General, Pastor Uwem Andrew Essien. The Managing Director of the Airport Development Authority, Uwem Ekanem, will serve as secretary.

Governor Eno expressed confidence in the committee members, noting that their combined experience would help deliver the airport project within the set timeline.

“I expect this committee to work tirelessly to ensure the realisation and commencement of full operations at the international airport by the first week of April 2026,” the governor said.

In the same meeting, Governor Eno also inaugurated the Inter-Ministerial Committee on the implementation of the Treasury Single Account for Internally Generated Revenue, stressing that full compliance with the TSA policy is non-negotiable.

He warned that no government agency is permitted to operate a stand-alone account, insisting that all revenues must pass through the Treasury Single Account to promote transparency and accountability.

“No agency is allowed to generate and spend money on its own. All funds must go through the TSA. This is the only way we can track our resources properly and maintain financial discipline,” Eno stated.

The governor added that Akwa Ibom State currently owes no bank loans and has no intention of borrowing unless it becomes absolutely necessary, with the approval of the legislature.

He expressed optimism that strict adherence to transparency, accountability, and the TSA policy would provide sufficient funds to execute the state’s ambitious ₦1.5 trillion budget for the benefit of the people.