-
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) says Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, Owerri, will be temporarily closed from October 20, 2026, for approximately 25 days, subject to final confirmation.
-
The closure is necessary to repair potholes and extensive surface cracks on sections of the runway, which have been worsened by recent heavy rainfall.
-
The rehabilitation will include pavement repairs, crack treatment, resurfacing and runway extension to improve safety and enable the airport to accommodate wide-body aircraft.
-
FAAN has advised passengers travelling through Owerri during the closure period to contact their airlines for flight updates and alternative arrangements ahead of the expected Christmas travel rush.
October 09, (THEWILL) – The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has announced plans to temporarily close the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, Owerri, Imo State, for 25 days to carry out essential runway repairs and expansion works.
The closure is tentatively scheduled to begin on October 20, 2026, subject to final confirmation, as the authority moves to address deteriorating sections of the runway and improve the airport’s operational capacity ahead of the Christmas travel season.
FAAN disclosed this in a statement signed by its Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Henry Agbebire, explaining that the intervention had become necessary following the emergence of potholes and extensive surface cracks on the runway.
According to the authority, recent heavy rainfall has further aggravated the condition of the affected sections, making rehabilitation necessary to restore the runway to a safer operational state.
“The closure is tentatively scheduled to commence on 20 October 2026, for approximately 25 days, subject to final confirmation”, the statement read.
The planned rehabilitation will involve pavement repairs, treatment of cracks and resurfacing of damaged sections of the runway.
Beyond addressing the immediate defects, FAAN said the project would also include an extension of the runway to enable the airport to accommodate wide-body aircraft as air traffic to the South-East region continues to grow.
The authority said the expansion was intended to improve passenger comfort and facilitate a more seamless travel experience, while strengthening the airport’s ability to handle increased demand.
FAAN explained that the timing of the work was also informed by the anticipated rise in passenger numbers and flight operations during the Christmas period, when many Nigerians travel to their home states to celebrate the festive season.
It urged passengers scheduled to travel through the Owerri airport during the proposed closure period to maintain contact with their respective airlines for updates on flight schedules and information on alternative travel arrangements.
The authority added that it would continue to engage relevant stakeholders and announce the confirmed closure and reopening dates once they had been finalised.
“FAAN appreciates the understanding and cooperation of all airport users as we undertake these essential works in our continued commitment to safe, efficient and reliable airport operations”, the statement added.
READ ALSO:
Background
The Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport serves Owerri and surrounding communities in Imo State and other parts of the South-East, providing an important link for business, tourism, family visits and other travel activities.
Runway conditions are critical to safe aircraft operations, as surface deterioration can affect the reliability and safety of take-offs and landings. Heavy rainfall can also worsen existing cracks and other pavement defects, increasing the need for timely maintenance.
The planned closure will temporarily disrupt flight operations at the airport, making it important for passengers and airlines to prepare for possible changes to travel schedules.
The inclusion of runway extension works also signals an effort to increase the airport’s capacity to handle larger aircraft as demand for air travel in the region grows.
However, FAAN said the October 20 commencement date remained tentative, with the final closure and reopening dates to be communicated after confirmation.
Felix Ifijeh is a journalist with years of professional reporting experience. Known for his keen news sense, compelling storytelling and commitment to accurate, impactful reporting, he has built a reputation for turning leads into clear, engaging, and well-structured reports that resonate with readers. His work reflects deep newsroom experience and a commitment to accurate, impactful journalism.
