Osubi Airport in Warri, Delta State, is being subject to significant upgrades, particularly a planned runway extension. These upgrades are intended to boost Nigeria’s domestic and inbound tourism and position the airport as a key player in Nigeria’s aviation landscape.
Osubi Airport’s success story is a tale of an incredible resurgence. As Nigeria’s only self-funded airport, the airport has witnessed a passenger traffic and revenue surge. Travel News. Africa reports that in the first half of 2024 alone, the airport processed 124,000 passengers and recorded 2,051 aircraft movements, generating over ₦831 million in revenue, in one of Nigeria’s aviation industry’s most stunning reversals of fate.
Under Winston Egwuatu’s nationally recognised, innovative leadership and efficient management, Osubi operates solely on internally generated revenue, demonstrating a financial sustainability model. With the planned runway extension, Osubi Airport will be able to accommodate larger aircraft and enjoy increased flight capacity and expanded routes.
The National Telescope reports that in addition to the runway expansion, Osubi Airport is also undergoing a series of upgrades, including a terminal expansion that will house a new VIP lounge, retail shops, and a restaurant. Future developments will feature an expanded apron, a new terminal building, and enhanced safety facilities such as a fire station.
Banking on Osubi’s revival and potential, airlines are jumping on the bandwagon. Air Peace and Arik Air currently operate daily flights to Lagos and Abuja. Meanwhile, according to Travel News, other carriers like Green Africa and United Nigeria Airlines are preparing to resume operations. Africa.
Osubi Airport also boasts of being one of Nigeria’s best-maintained airports, leveraging its positive relationship with the local community. Its transformation is also a testament to the power of effective management and strategic investment in infrastructure.
The airport also has upgraded baggage scanning technology, which has further enhanced its appeal as a secure and efficient travel hub. This focus on security, combined with the planned infrastructure improvements, positions Osubi Airport as a desirable destination for domestic and international travellers.
ALSO READ
- Nigeria, Tunisia Strengthen Bilateral Relations in Culture and Tourism
- 68th UN Tourism CAF Meeting: Nigeria’s Bid to Become a Global Tourism Destination Gains Traction
- Nigeria and Trinidad & Tobago Forge Deal to Boost Trade, Tourism, and Connectivity
The growth and upward trajectory of Osubi Airport present exciting new opportunities. The airport’s expansion and improved infrastructure will enhance connectivity within Nigeria and potentially open doors for regional and international flights. As the airport continues to expand and upgrade its facilities, it is poised to become a major player in Nigeria’s aviation sector.
Osubi Airport’s remarkable growth and planned upgrades represent a significant catalyst for Nigeria’s tourism industry. It is poised to enhance connectivity, stimulate economic growth, and unlock Nigeria’s vast tourism potential. Recent developments at this Warri-based aviation hub signal a transformative period for Nigerian travel infrastructure that aligns perfectly with the country’s tourism aspirations and changing traveller preferences.
The timing of Osubi Airport’s growth aligns with Nigeria’s broader tourism development objectives. Improved air connectivity through regional airports like Osubi can help diversify tourism beyond traditional entry points such as Lagos and Abuja. This dispersion of visitors across multiple destinations can spread economic benefits more equitably throughout the country while reducing pressure on over-utilised tourism infrastructure in major cities.
For the local economy surrounding Warri and Delta State, increased passenger traffic through Osubi Airport creates business opportunities catering to travellers, including transportation services, accommodations, restaurants, and tour operations. The multiplier effect of tourism spending will stimulate job creation and economic activity throughout the region.
The development of Osubi Airport corresponds well with emerging travel preferences in Nigeria. Current trends show Nigerian travellers increasingly seeking authentic experiences rather than conventional tourism activities. With its rich cultural heritage and natural attractions, Delta State is well-positioned to satisfy this demand for meaningful travel experiences. Plus, the growing interest in adventure tourism and outdoor activities among Nigerian travellers aligns with Delta State’s offerings of natural landscapes and waterways accessible via Osubi Airport.
Also, the rise of work-and-travel lifestyles in Nigeria creates demand for destinations with reliable transportation links that allow for flexible, extended stays. Osubi Airport’s improved connectivity supports this trend by making Delta State more accessible for digital nomads and remote workers looking to combine professional responsibilities with exploration of new regions.
Stay updated with the latest airline developments in Nigeria on Rex Clarke Adventures.
FAQs
1. What is the current status of the Osubi Airport runway extension?
The runway extension at Osubi Airport is an ongoing project to upgrade the airport to accommodate bigger aircraft and boost travel capacity. Although there have been delays and concerns about funding and ownership, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) is currently operating the airport, and plans for runway expansion, apron extension, and terminal upgrades are underway.
2. Who owns and manages Osubi Airport?
Initially built by Shell, Osubi Airport was later owned by Shoreline Oil Services and NNPC but was taken over by the Federal Government due to operational and debt issues. Currently, the airport is managed by FAAN, which has the authority to implement upgrades, including the runway extension.
3. How will the runway extension impact Nigeria’s tourism and travel?
The extension will enable Osubi Airport to handle larger aircraft and increased flight operations, attracting more airlines and passengers. This will boost regional connectivity, promote tourism, and enhance economic activities in Delta State and Nigeria.
4. Which airlines operate at Osubi Airport, and are there plans for more?
AirPeace and Arik Air currently operate daily flights to Lagos and Abuja. Other airlines, such as Green Africa, Overland, and United Nigeria Airlines, have expressed interest in resuming operations at Osubi Airport, especially with the planned infrastructure upgrades.
5. What facilities and improvements are planned alongside the runway extension?
The upgrade plans include extending the runway to international standards, expanding the apron, constructing a new terminal building with VIP lounges, retail shops, a restaurant, a fire station, and enhancing security with a police station and perimeter fencing. These improvements aim to make Osubi Airport a modern, world-class facility.
