The Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, Owerri, Imo State, will be temporarily closed from October 20, 2026, for about 25 days to allow for runway rehabilitation, resurfacing and extension works.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, disclosed this in a statement shared on his official X account, explaining that the intervention was aimed at improving aviation safety, operational efficiency and the airport’s capacity ahead of increased travel during the Christmas season.
Keyamo said the decision followed consultations with the Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, and other stakeholders in the state and the South-East, who agreed on the need for the temporary closure to facilitate the essential works.
“The planned runway rehabilitation is a joint partnership of the Federal Government and Imo State Government,” the minister stated.
He explained that the project reflected a shared commitment by the Federal Government, through the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, and the Imo State Government to upgrade aviation infrastructure and meet the growing demand for air travel in the region.
According to Keyamo, the rehabilitation will address deteriorated sections of the runway pavement, extensive surface cracks and potholes, as well as involve resurfacing affected areas and extending the runway.
The minister said the completed project would 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 stressed that the timing of the project was crucial as passenger traffic and flight movements to Owerri and other parts of the South-East typically increase 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,” Keyamo said.
While acknowledging that the temporary closure could inconvenience passengers and other airport users, the minister appealed for their understanding and cooperation, stressing that aviation safety must not be compromised.
He added that 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.
Passengers scheduled to use the airport during the closure period were advised to contact their respective airlines for information on flight cancellations, rescheduling and alternative travel arrangements.
Keyamo said the confirmed closure and reopening dates would be communicated through appropriate official channels.
The minister also commended Uzodimma and the Imo State Government for their cooperation and contribution to the runway extension project, describing the collaboration as an example of what could be achieved when different levels of government work together in the public interest.
He said the project was expected to strengthen air connectivity in the South-East and support the region’s economic development.
“Our commitment remains to provide safer, more efficient and modern aviation infrastructure across the country,” Keyamo said, adding that the Owerri runway rehabilitation and extension project was part of efforts to achieve that objective.
