The Minister of Transport, Joseph Bukari Nikpe, says the government is taking steps to restore the original name of Kotoka International Airport (KIA) as part of a broader effort to properly reflect Ghana’s history and national identity.

Speaking on ‘Ekosiisen’ on Asempa 94.7 FM, on Thursday, February 5, Mr Nikpe said developments within the transport sector and renewed public debate over the identity of the country’s main international airport have prompted the government to take a holistic look at the issue.

He explained that the facility was originally known as Accra International Airport, a name that reflects the country’s capital and aligns with naming conventions in other African cities such as Nairobi International Airport and Addis Ababa International Airport.

“Accra has significant geographical and national recognition. It is a name we all identify with,” the Minister said.

Mr Nipke noted that while pressure groups and civil society organisations have raised concerns over the current name, the government’s decision is not based on fragmented public pressure but on a historical review.

He explained that the airport was renamed after General Kotoka following his role in the 1966 coup, a decision taken by his contemporaries at the time.

“As a country with a rich cultural history, we must look back, understand who we were, and decide what we want to be today,” he said.

According to the Minister, the government believes restoring the airport’s original name would help end recurring debates and competing demands to rename the facility after different personalities.

“If we return to the original name, it will help resolve these recurring issues,” he added.

He clarified that the government’s official position is to amend the General Kotoka Trust Act to allow for the reversion to Accra International Airport, stressing that the process will follow due parliamentary procedure.

“My responsibility as the Minister is to take this matter to Parliament for debate and approval. That is the proper process,” he said.

The Minister added that while various opinions have been expressed publicly, the final decision rests with Parliament.

“As the Minister responsible, my position going to Parliament is to rename the airport Accra International Airport,” he stated.