The Federal Government, in collaboration with the Imo State Government, has announced plans to temporarily close the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri for approximately 25 days to allow for runway repairs, resurfacing and extension works.
The closure is tentatively scheduled to begin on October 20, 2026, subject to final confirmation, ahead of the expected increase in passenger traffic during the Christmas season.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, announced the planned closure, describing the intervention as necessary to improve aviation safety, increase airport capacity and enhance operational efficiency.
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) said the proposed shutdown followed the deterioration of sections of the runway, including potholes and extensive surface cracks worsened by recent heavy rainfall.
The rehabilitation project will involve pavement repairs, crack treatment and resurfacing of affected sections to restore the runway to a safer operational condition.
The works will also include an extension of the runway to enable the airport to accommodate wide-body aircraft as air traffic to the South-East region grows, subject to applicable regulatory requirements.
Keyamo said the decision followed consultations involving FAAN, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma and other stakeholders in the region.
He commended the partnership between the Federal Government and the Imo State Government, noting that improved airport infrastructure would strengthen connectivity, support businesses and contribute to economic development in the region.
The Minister acknowledged that the temporary closure would inconvenience passengers and other airport users but stressed that aviation safety could not be compromised.
He said the shutdown would allow contractors to carry out the rehabilitation work effectively without operational interference.
Passengers scheduled to travel through Owerri during the proposed closure period have been advised to contact their respective airlines for updates on flight schedules, cancellations, rescheduling and alternative travel arrangements.
FAAN said it would continue engaging airlines and other stakeholders to minimise disruptions, adding that the confirmed closure and reopening dates would be communicated once the arrangements had been finalised.
