The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced the temporary closure of the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri, Imo State, for a period of 25 days. This decision was made to facilitate runway rehabilitation and extension work, which is set to commence on October 20, 2026. The closure was disclosed by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, in a statement.
According to Keyamo, the closure was agreed upon by the Federal Government, the Imo State Government, and aviation stakeholders in the South-East. The planned works are aimed at ensuring aviation safety and preparing the airport for increased passenger traffic during the festive period. Keyamo had earlier spoken with Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State regarding the project.
The rehabilitation work will involve repairing deteriorated sections of the runway pavement, treating surface cracks, filling potholes, resurfacing affected areas, and extending the runway. The project will be executed through the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria in partnership with the Imo State Government. Once completed, the works are expected to restore the runway to a safer and more reliable condition.
The project is particularly important as it coincides with the approach of the Christmas travel season, when passenger traffic and flight movements to Owerri traditionally increase. The Minister emphasized that it is the government's responsibility to ensure that the necessary infrastructure is in the right condition to support safe and efficient operations during this busy period and beyond.
Keyamo acknowledged that the temporary closure would inconvenience passengers and airport users but appealed for understanding, stressing that aviation safety remains non-negotiable. He assured that the Federal Government would continue to engage the Imo State Government, airlines, and other stakeholders to coordinate the project and minimize disruptions.
Passengers scheduled to travel through the airport during the closure period have been advised to contact their respective airlines regarding flight rescheduling, cancellations, and alternative travel arrangements. Confirmed closure and reopening dates would be officially communicated through formal aviation channels.
The Minister commended Governor Uzodimma and the Imo State Government for their cooperation, describing the partnership as an effective collaboration to upgrade aviation infrastructure and stimulate regional economic growth. The project aims to improve the airport's capacity to accommodate larger aircraft, subject to applicable operational and regulatory requirements.
Key points
- The Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri will be closed for 25 days for runway rehabilitation and extension.
- The closure is scheduled to commence on October 20, 2026, ahead of the peak Christmas travel season.
- The project aims to restore the runway to a safer and more reliable condition and improve its capacity to accommodate larger aircraft.
