Why FG shut down Owerri International Airport – Minister

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has said the temporary closure of Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, Owerri is to improve safety, operational efficiency and capacity ahead of Christmas travel season.

Keyamo, who disclosed this in a statement on Friday said the planned runway rehabilitation was a joint partnership with the federal government and Imo state government.

The minister explained that governor of Imo state, Senator Hope Uzodinma, along other stakeholders had agreed on the need for the temporary closure of the runway, to allow for essential rehabilitation, resurfacing and extension works.

He said the closure was expected to commence on October 20, 2026, and last approximately 25 days.

According to him, this decision is in the best interest of aviation safety and the long-term operational efficiency of the airport, which serves as a critical gateway for the people, businesses and economic activities of the South-East.

“The agreement with Governor Uzodimma and other stakeholders reflects the commitment of the federal government, through the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), and the Imo State Government to improving aviation infrastructure and meet the growing demands of air travel in the region.

“We wish to acknowledge the contribution of the Imo state Government to the runway extension project.

“This collaboration demonstrates what can be achieved when different levels of government work together in the interest of the public.

“Our common objective is to deliver an airport that meets the needs of its users and supports the economic development of the region,” he said.

Keyamo said the rehabilitation would involve repairs to deteriorated sections of the runway pavement, treatment of extensive surface cracks, filling of potholes and resurfacing of affected areas, alongside the planned runway extension.

He said when completed, these works were expected to restore the runway to a safer and more reliable operational condition and improve its capacity to accommodate larger aircraft, including wide-body aircraft, subject to applicable operational and regulatory requirements.

“The timing of this intervention is particularly important as we approach the Christmas travel season, when passenger traffic and flight movements to Owerri and other parts of the South-East traditionally increase.

“It is our responsibility to ensure that the necessary infrastructure is in the right condition to support safe and efficient operations during this busy period and beyond.

“We recognise that the temporary closure will cause some inconvenience to passengers and other airport users, we appeal for their understanding and cooperation.

“Aviation safety cannot be compromised, and the closure is necessary to enable contractors to carry out the required works effectively,” he said.

He assured that the federal government, would continue to engage the Imo state government, airlines and other relevant stakeholders to ensure proper coordination and minimise disruption to travellers.

The minister said passengers scheduled to travel through the airport during the closure period were advised to contact their respective airlines for information on flight cancellations, rescheduling and alternative travel arrangements.

He said the confirmed closure and reopening dates will be communicated through the appropriate official channels.

“We appreciate governor and the Imo state government for their cooperation and commitment to this important project.

“I also thank airlines, aviation stakeholders and the travelling public for their anticipated understanding as we undertake this necessary intervention.

“Our commitment remains to provide safer, more efficient and modern aviation infrastructure across the country.

“The Owerri runway rehabilitation and extension project is another step towards achieving that objective and strengthening air connectivity for the South-East,” he said.