Ibom Air Denies Monopoly Claims at Uyo Airport

On August 30, 2026, Ibom Air issued a statement addressing public concerns regarding alleged monopolistic control over Victor Attah International Airport in Uyo. The airline, which serves as the state-backed carrier for Akwa Ibom, clarified that it does not possess the authority to dictate which airlines can operate at the airport.

According to the Civil Aviation Act 2022, the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) holds exclusive regulatory power over commercial flight operations. Ibom Air asserted that any airline meeting NCAA's safety, financial, and operational standards is entitled to operate from Uyo.

The airline also pointed out that fluctuations in flight frequencies are due to operational necessities, such as maintenance checks, rather than strategic market manipulation. Furthermore, Ibom Air expressed its openness to increased airline presence at the airport, emphasizing that a multi-carrier hub benefits passengers and regional commerce.

The airline reiterated that its home-carrier status does not equate to control over airport infrastructure.