The closure will begin on October 20 as the Federal Government and Imo State Government move to upgrade the airport ahead of the Christmas travel rush.
The Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, Owerri, Imo State, will be temporarily closed for approximately 25 days from October 20, 2026, to allow for runway rehabilitation, resurfacing and extension works.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), announced the planned closure, explaining that the intervention was necessary to improve aviation safety, operational efficiency and the airport’s capacity ahead of the busy Christmas travel season.
Keyamo disclosed that the decision followed consultations with Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma and other stakeholders in the state and the South-East, who agreed on the need to temporarily shut the runway to facilitate the project.
According to the minister, the rehabilitation is a joint undertaking by the Federal Government, through the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), and the Imo State Government.
He acknowledged the state government’s contribution to the runway extension project, describing the partnership as an example of cooperation between different levels of government to improve public infrastructure.
Keyamo said the rehabilitation would address deteriorated sections of the runway pavement, extensive surface cracks and potholes, alongside the resurfacing of affected areas and the planned extension.
He explained that the project was expected to 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.
The minister noted that the timing of the project was significant because passenger traffic and flight movements to Owerri and other parts of the South-East traditionally increase during the Christmas period.
He said the government had a responsibility to ensure that aviation infrastructure was in suitable condition to support safe and efficient flight operations during the festive season and beyond.
While acknowledging that the temporary shutdown would inconvenience passengers and other airport users, Keyamo appealed for their understanding and cooperation, stressing that aviation safety could 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 exercise and minimise disruptions to travellers.
Passengers scheduled to fly through the Owerri 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.
He expressed appreciation to Governor Uzodimma and the Imo State Government for their cooperation, while also thanking airlines, aviation stakeholders and passengers for their anticipated support.
The minister said the runway rehabilitation and extension project formed part of the Federal Government’s broader commitment to developing safer, more efficient and modern aviation infrastructure across Nigeria.
He added that the upgrade would strengthen air connectivity in the South-East and help position the airport to meet the region’s growing transportation and economic needs.
