The federal government has announced the temporary closure of the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, Owerri, Imo State, for 25 days from October 20 to allow for runway rehabilitation, resurfacing and extension ahead of the Christmas travel season.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, disclosed this in a statement on Friday, saying the planned intervention was agreed upon with the Imo State Government and other stakeholders to improve aviation safety and operational efficiency.
Keyamo said he had spoken with Governor Hope Uzodimma on the project, adding that the collaboration between both levels of government was aimed at upgrading the airport to meet the growing demand for air travel in the southeast.
According to him, the rehabilitation will address deteriorated sections of the runway pavement, extensive surface cracks and potholes, alongside resurfacing and the planned runway extension.
He said the completed project was expected to restore the runway to a safer and more reliable operational condition while improving its capacity to accommodate larger aircraft, including wide-body aircraft, subject to applicable operational and regulatory requirements.
He acknowledged that the closure would cause some inconvenience to passengers and other airport users but stressed that the work was necessary to ensure the runway was fit for safe operations.
“Aviation safety cannot be compromised, and the closure is necessary to enable contractors to carry out the required works effectively,” he said.
Keyamo said the federal government would continue to engage the Imo State Government, airlines and other relevant stakeholders to coordinate the project and minimise disruptions to travellers.
He advised passengers scheduled to travel through the airport during the closure to contact their airlines for information on flight cancellations, rescheduling and alternative travel arrangements.
The minister added that the confirmed reopening date would be communicated through official channels.He commended Uzodimma and the Imo State Government for their cooperation and contribution to the runway extension project, describing the partnership as an example of collaboration between different levels of government to improve public infrastructure.
Keyamo said the project formed part of the federal government’s broader commitment to developing safer and more efficient aviation infrastructure and strengthening air connectivity across the country.
