The Yobe State Government and the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) have signed a Service Level Agreement (SLA) to commence full commercial operations at the Muhammadu Buhari International Cargo Airport (MBICA) in Damaturu.

The development was announced in a statement issued on 10 October 2025 by Dr Mustapha Abba Geidam, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Transport and Energy.

The agreement was signed by NAMA’s Managing Director, Farouq Ahmed Umar, while Yobe State was represented by Commissioner for Transport and Energy Muhammad Muhammad Bara and Dr Geidam.

Under the SLA, NAMA will provide essential services required for safe and efficient airport operations, including air traffic control, communication systems, navigation and surveillance, aeronautical information services and search-and-rescue coordination.

The ministry said the agreement positions MBICA on the verge of full compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) operational and safety standards.

Governor Mai Mala Buni described the milestone as “a major leap in opening Yobe State to global aviation, trade and investment,” noting that the 2026 Hajj operations will depart from the airport—its first international passenger movement.

He praised NAMA, the ministry and technical partners for their commitment, saying MBICA will stimulate economic growth, job creation and infrastructure development.

The ministry reaffirmed its readiness to work with aviation agencies and stakeholders to fast-track certification and prepare MBICA for commercial flights.