The Managing Director, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mr Saleh Dunoma, says the just re-opened Maiduguri International Airport is now free for commercial operations.

FAAN’s General Manager, Corporate Affairs, Mr Yakubu Dati assured Nigerians and airport customers that security had been beefed up within and outside the airport for passengers’ safety.

Operations at the airport was suspended in December 2014.

Subsequently, the joint military task force took over the airport following a raid on nearby military units by Boko Haram.

Dunoma, in the statement, assured staff working at the airport, of management’s support as they operated in the midst of security challenges.

The FAAN chief urged them to keep supporting the federal government, especially the armed agencies that were using their facilities.

“I urge FAAN workers to remain committed to successful operations as the Maiduguri Airport opens for commercial operations,” he was quoted as saying in the statement.

It also quoted Dunoma as commending the staff for ensuring that facilities and equipment of the authority were maintained throughout the period the airport was shut down.

The statement called on them to make safety, security and passenger comfort, their key objectives in line with the mandate of the Authority.