The temporary closure, scheduled to begin on 20 October, will allow runway repairs and extension works ahead of the festive season.
The Federal Government has announced plans to temporarily close the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri, Imo State, for 25 days to undertake runway rehabilitation and extension works ahead of the Christmas travel season.
The closure, scheduled to commence on 20 October 2026, is aimed at improving aviation safety and operational efficiency while preparing the airport to accommodate increased passenger traffic during the festive period.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, announced the decision following consultations with the Imo State Government and other aviation stakeholders in the South-East.
According to the minister, the project will be undertaken in collaboration with the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and the Imo State Government.
The rehabilitation will involve repairing deteriorated sections of the runway pavement, treating extensive surface cracks, filling potholes and resurfacing affected areas.
The project will also include extending the runway to improve the airport’s capacity to accommodate larger aircraft, including wide-body aircraft, subject to applicable operational and regulatory requirements.
Keyamo said the intervention was necessary to restore the runway to a safer and more reliable condition, adding that the timing was crucial given the anticipated increase in air travel to the South-East during Christmas.
He acknowledged that the temporary shutdown could inconvenience passengers and other airport users but stressed that aviation safety remained a priority.
The minister also commended Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma and other stakeholders for their cooperation in facilitating the project.
The Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport serves as a major gateway to Owerri and surrounding communities, as well as other parts of the South-East, making its operations important to regional commerce, tourism and mobility.
Passengers scheduled to travel through the airport during the closure have been advised to contact their respective airlines for updates on flight schedules, cancellations, rescheduling and alternative travel arrangements.
The government said the confirmed reopening date would be communicated through official channels.
The rehabilitation comes ahead of the Christmas period, when thousands of Nigerians living outside the South-East typically travel to the region to celebrate with their families.
