The Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, often referred to as the Abuja airport, stands as the solitary airport serving the Federal Capital Territory of Nigeria. If you’re curious about its specific location, read on through this article for a detailed insight, making sure to peruse until the very end.
Overview of The Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport
Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, true to its name, is a hub for both domestic and international flights, catering to the Federal Capital Territory of Nigeria, Abuja. Its namesake is none other than the inaugural president of Nigeria, Nnamdi Azikiwe. The airport boasts a combined domestic and international terminal utilizing a single runway. Remarkably, it ranks as Nigeria’s second largest airport and stands as one of the busiest on the African continent.
Location of Abuja Airport
Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport sits about 20 kilometers to the west of Abuja, the capital city. To reach the airport from Abuja, you’ll take the well-known Airport Road, also referred to as Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Road. Heading north from the airport, you’ll find the notable Nigerian landmark, Zuma Rock.
History of Abuja Airport
In 2000, Julius Berger built a new airport terminal close to the existing terminal where both national and international flights took place. Upon its opening in 2002, the new terminal started serving international flights while the existing terminal continues to serve only domestic flights.
In November 2006, the Abuja Gateway Consortium secured a contract worth US$101.1 million to oversee airport management for 25 years. The contract encompassed the development of amenities such as an airport hotel, shopping centers, private parking facilities, and a bonded warehouse. These ventures amounted to US$50 million in the initial five years, along with an upfront payment of US$10 million. However, President Yar’Adua annulled this contract in April 2008.
Subsequently, there were plans for a second runway, and Julius Berger Construction Company was awarded a contract worth US$423 million for this project. However, they ultimately backed out due to the exorbitant costs involved. Later, the Federal Government approved fresh bids for the construction of a second runway.
The Abuja airport underwent a six-week closure starting from March 8, 2017, for essential runway repairs. After the project’s completion on April 18, 2017, the airport resumed its services.
A new terminal building was inaugurated by President Muhammadu Buhari on December 20, 2018. This modern terminal has the capacity to handle up to 15 million passengers annually, as stated by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria.
Airlines That Fly The Abuja Airport Terminal
- Aero Contractors
- Air France
- Africa World Airlines
- Air Cote d’Ivoire
- Air Peace
- Arik Air
- Azman Air
- ASKY Airlines
- British Airways
- Emirates
- Egypt Air
- Ethiopian Airlines
- Ibom Air
- Green Africa Airways
- Lufthansa
- Max Air
- Overland Airways
- Med-View Airline
- RwandAir
- Qatar Airways
- United Nigeria Airlines
- Turkish Airlines
Conclusion
Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport is situated west of the capital city and is 21 kilometers away. It is the airport that serves the Federal Capital Territory and it has two terminals which serve both local and international flights.
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