The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, has announced the temporary closure of the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, Owerri, to allow for major runway rehabilitation works.
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‎In a statement issued on Friday, the Minister said the closure has become necessary to improve safety and operational efficiency at the airport ahead of the Christmas travel season.
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‎He explained that the rehabilitation project is a joint partnership between the Federal Government and the Imo State Government and will involve repairs to deteriorated sections of the runway, treatment of surface cracks, filling of potholes, resurfacing and extension works to accommodate larger aircraft.
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‎Keyamo disclosed that he had earlier spoken with the Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma, who, along with other critical stakeholders in the South-East, agreed on the need for the temporary closure.
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‎The airport is expected to be closed from October 20, 2026, for a period of approximately 25 days.
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‎The statement further advised passengers scheduled to travel through Owerri during the period to contact their airlines for information on flight cancellations, rescheduling and alternative travel arrangements.
FG Announces Temporary Closure of Sam Mbakwe Airport for Runway Rehabilitation
