Owerri airport faces 25-day closure for runway repairs

The Federal Government will close the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri, Imo State, for 25 days from October 20 to allow for runway rehabilitation and extension ahead of the Christmas travel rush.

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, announced the planned closure in a post on his X handle on Friday, saying the project was necessary to improve aviation safety and prepare the airport for increased passenger traffic during the festive season.

Keyamo said the decision followed consultations involving the Federal Government, the Imo State Government and aviation stakeholders in the South-East.

He disclosed that the rehabilitation would involve repairing deteriorated sections of the runway, treating surface cracks, filling potholes, resurfacing affected areas and extending the runway.

According to him, the work will be executed by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria in partnership with the Imo State Government.

The minister said the improvements were expected to restore the runway to a safer and more reliable condition and enhance its capacity to accommodate larger aircraft, subject to operational and regulatory requirements.

He noted that the timing was crucial because passenger traffic and flight movements to Owerri traditionally increase during the Christmas season.

Keyamo acknowledged that the temporary shutdown would inconvenience passengers and other airport users but stressed that aviation safety remained a priority.

He said the Federal Government would continue engaging the Imo State Government, airlines and other stakeholders to coordinate the project and minimise disruptions.

Passengers scheduled to travel through the airport during the closure were advised to contact their airlines for information on flight cancellations, rescheduling and alternative travel arrangements.

The minister added that the confirmed closure and reopening dates would be communicated through official aviation channels.

He also commended Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma for collaborating with the Federal Government on the project, describing the partnership as part of efforts to improve aviation infrastructure and support regional economic growth.