The temporary closure of Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport will begin on October 20, 2026, to allow runway repairs and extension aimed at improving aviation safety and accommodating larger aircraft.
The Federal Government has announced plans to temporarily close the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri, Imo State, for 25 days to facilitate major runway rehabilitation and extension works ahead of the busy Christmas travel season.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, disclosed the development on Friday in a post on his official X account, explaining that the decision followed consultations among the Federal Government, the Imo State Government and aviation stakeholders in the South-East.
According to the minister, the closure will commence on October 20, 2026, as authorities move to address the deteriorating condition of the airport’s runway and strengthen its capacity to support safe and efficient flight operations.
Keyamo said he had spoken with Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, earlier in the day, adding that the planned intervention was necessary to ensure the airport’s infrastructure is in suitable condition before the anticipated increase in passenger traffic during the festive season.
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Runway Repairs and Extension Planned
The minister explained that the rehabilitation project would address several defects affecting the runway pavement, including deteriorated sections, extensive surface cracks and potholes.
The work will involve repairing damaged portions of the pavement, treating cracks, filling potholes and resurfacing affected areas. The project will also include an extension of the runway.
Keyamo noted that the intervention is expected to restore the runway to a safer and more reliable operational condition when completed.
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He added that the proposed extension could improve the airport’s ability to accommodate larger aircraft, subject to applicable operational and regulatory requirements.
The project will be executed through the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), in partnership with the Imo State Government.
The minister said the collaboration reflects the commitment of both levels of government to upgrading critical aviation infrastructure and improving transportation services in the region.
Closure Comes Ahead of Christmas Travel Rush
The timing of the planned rehabilitation is particularly significant as Owerri and other parts of the South-East prepare for the annual Christmas travel rush.
Passenger traffic and flight movements to the region traditionally increase during the festive period as Nigerians living in other parts of the country and abroad travel home to celebrate with their families.
The airport serves as an important gateway to Imo State and neighboring communities, making its operational condition a key consideration for passengers, airlines and businesses that depend on air transportation.
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Keyamo said the government considered it necessary to carry out the work to ensure that the airport’s infrastructure could support safe and efficient operations during the festive season and beyond.
However, the temporary shutdown is expected to require affected passengers and airlines to make alternative arrangements while the rehabilitation is underway.
Passengers Advised to Contact Airlines
Acknowledging the inconvenience the closure could cause airport users, Keyamo appealed to passengers and other stakeholders for understanding, stressing that aviation safety remains non-negotiable.
He advised travellers scheduled to fly through Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport during the affected period to contact their respective airlines for information on flight cancellations, rescheduling and alternative travel arrangements.
The minister also assured the public that the Federal Government would continue engaging the Imo State Government, airlines and other aviation stakeholders to coordinate the project and minimise disruptions.
He added that the confirmed closure and reopening dates would be communicated through official aviation channels.
Passengers are therefore encouraged to monitor announcements from their airlines and relevant aviation authorities before travelling to the airport.
FG, Imo Government Strengthen Aviation Partnership
Keyamo commended Governor Hope Uzodimma and the Imo State Government for their cooperation in facilitating the planned rehabilitation.
He described the partnership as an example of effective collaboration between the Federal Government and a state government in addressing infrastructure needs and supporting regional economic development.
The rehabilitation and runway extension are expected to improve the airport’s operational reliability and strengthen its role in connecting Imo State and the wider South-East to other destinations.
For passengers, airlines and businesses that rely on the airport, the immediate priority will be navigating the temporary closure while awaiting the completion of the works.
The Federal Government has maintained that the intervention is aimed at improving aviation safety and preparing the airport for future operational demands.
Further details, including the officially confirmed reopening date, are expected to be communicated by the relevant authorities through formal aviation channels.
