History
Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, named after Nigeria's first president, was officially opened in 1982. The airport was built to serve the new federal capital territory of Abuja, which was being developed at the time.
The airport has undergone significant modernization, including a major terminal expansion in 2018 that increased its capacity to handle more passengers and flights. Today, it serves as a crucial hub for both domestic and international travel in Nigeria.
Terminals
International Terminal
The international terminal is a modern facility that handles all international flights. It features:
- State-of-the-art check-in counters and self-service kiosks
- Duty-free shopping areas
- International restaurants and cafes
- Business lounges (including Arik Air Lounge)
- Currency exchange services
- Free Wi-Fi access
- Medical facilities
Domestic Terminal
The domestic terminal serves all domestic flights and includes:
- Efficient check-in areas
- Food courts and retail shops
- Business center
- Prayer rooms
- Baggage claim areas
- VIP lounges
Airlines & Destinations
International Airlines
Major international carriers operating from ABV include:
- Ethiopian Airlines (Addis Ababa)
- Turkish Airlines (Istanbul)
- Qatar Airways (Doha)
- Emirates (Dubai)
- British Airways (London)
- Air France (Paris)
- Lufthansa (Frankfurt)
Domestic Airlines
Key domestic carriers include:
- Air Peace
- Arik Air
- Ibom Air
- United Nigeria Airlines
- Dana Air
- Max Air
Transport Connections
Road Transport
The airport is well-connected to Abuja city center and surrounding areas through various transport options:
- Taxis: Official airport taxis are available 24/7. Fixed rates apply for different destinations.
- Ride-hailing: Uber and Bolt operate at the airport.
- Car Rental: Several car rental companies have desks at the airport.
- Public Transport: Buses connect the airport to various parts of Abuja.
Parking
Both terminals have short-term and long-term parking facilities. Rates vary by duration, with special rates for long-term parking.
Facilities & Services
- Banking: Multiple ATMs and bank branches available
- Currency Exchange: Several exchange bureaus in both terminals
- Medical Services: 24/7 medical center and pharmacy
- Prayer Rooms: Available in both terminals
- Business Services: Conference rooms and business centers
- Wi-Fi: Free internet access throughout the terminals
- Lost & Found: Located in the terminal buildings
- VIP Services: Special handling for VIP passengers
Travel Tips
- Arrive at least 3 hours before international flights and 2 hours before domestic flights
- Keep your travel documents and valuables secure at all times
- Use official airport transport services
- Be aware of current COVID-19 requirements and restrictions
- Check with your airline for specific baggage allowances
- Consider purchasing travel insurance before your trip
- Book airport transport in advance during peak travel periods