Hussaini Ibrahim 
YOBE, Nigeria – The Yobe State Government and the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) have formally signed a Service Level Agreement (SLA) to launch full commercial operations at the Muhammadu Buhari International Cargo Airport (MBICA) in Damaturu, marking a milestone in the state’s aviation development.
The agreement was finalised at NAMA headquarters, where Managing Director Farouq Ahmed Umar signed on behalf of the agency, while Yobe was represented by Commissioner for Transport and Energy Hon Muhammad Muhammad Bara and Permanent Secretary Dr Mustapha Abba Geidam.
In a statement on Wednesday, Dr Geidam said the SLA mandates NAMA to provide essential aerodrome services including Air Traffic Control, aeronautical communications, navigation and surveillance systems, and Aeronautical Information Services. “This partnership ensures MBICA operates with the highest level of safety, technology and regulatory compliance expected in the global aviation industry,” he said.
The agreement also covers Search and Rescue coordination in line with ICAO standards, strengthening the airport’s readiness for international operations. Governor Mai Mala Buni described the development as “a major leap in our journey to open Yobe State to global aviation, trade and investment opportunities.”
Buni reaffirmed the state’s commitment to ensuring the first international passenger operations — including the 2026 Hajj flights — commence from MBICA. He commended NAMA and the Ministry for their efforts in advancing certification processes and operational readiness.
Geidam added that the state aims to build an aviation hub capable of boosting mobility, commerce and long-term economic growth. He praised Governor Buni’s infrastructure investments, saying they are central to transforming Yobe’s aviation sector.
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Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
Oluwatobi Adu 
Chukwu Obinna