The Federal Government has announced the temporary closure of the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri, Imo State, for 25 days to facilitate runway rehabilitation and extension ahead of the 2026 Christmas travel season.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, alongside the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), said the closure would commence on October 20, 2026.
Keyamo disclosed in a post on his X handle that the decision followed consultations among the Federal Government, the Imo State Government and aviation stakeholders in the South-East.
He said he spoke with Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma earlier on Friday, noting that the planned intervention was necessary to enhance aviation safety and prepare the airport for increased passenger traffic during the festive period.
The minister commended Uzodimma and the state government for their cooperation, describing the partnership as a collaborative effort to upgrade aviation infrastructure and support regional economic growth.
According to Keyamo, the rehabilitation will involve repairing deteriorated sections of the runway pavement, treating extensive surface cracks, filling potholes, resurfacing affected areas and extending the runway.
The project, which will be executed by FAAN in partnership with the Imo State Government, is expected to restore the runway to a safer and more reliable operational condition.
“When completed, these works are expected to restore the runway to a safer and more reliable operational condition and improve its capacity to accommodate larger aircraft, subject to applicable operational and regulatory requirements,” the minister said.
He stressed that the timing of the project was critical, given the anticipated increase in passenger traffic and flight movements to Owerri during the Christmas period.
“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,” he added.
Keyamo acknowledged that the temporary closure could inconvenience passengers and other airport users but appealed for their understanding, emphasising that aviation safety remained non-negotiable.
He assured the public that the Federal Government would continue to work with 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 period were advised to contact their respective airlines for information on flight rescheduling, cancellations and alternative travel arrangements.
The minister added that the confirmed closure and reopening dates would be communicated through official aviation channels.
