FG Announces 25-Day Closure Of Owerri Airport Ahead Of Christmas

In a press release announcing the closure, Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, emphasized that the intervention is essential to guaranty aviation safety, expand capacity, and enhance operational efficiency prior to the customary spike in Christmas travel to the Southeast.

The rehabilitation project will fill potholes, treat large surface cracks, and repair deteriorated portions of the runway pavement. Subject to regulatory requirements, the proposed runway extension aims to improve the airport’s capacity to handle larger, wide-body aircraft in addition to resurfacing.

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Senator Hope Uzodinma, the governor of Imo State, and other regional stakeholders reached an agreement that led to the decision. Keyamo commended the federal and state governments’ collaboration.

In response to the unavoidable disruptions, the Ministry emphasized that aviation safety cannot be jeopardized while acknowledging the inconvenience the closure will cause to airport users. In order to give contractors unrestricted access to carry out the upgrades, the temporary shutdown is required.

It is recommended that travelers who are scheduled to pass through Owerri during the 25-day closure period get in touch with their respective airlines right away to make arrangements for flight cancelations, rescheduling, or alternate travel arrangements. In order to minimize disruptions, the government has promised to keep interacting with airlines and stakeholders. Official channels will be used to announce confirmed reopening dates.

The Federal Government should ensure the rehabilitation is completed safely and efficiently, with every necessary precaution in place. While improving the runway is important, protecting lives must remain the top priority.