The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has announced plans to temporarily close the runway at Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri, Imo State, for approximately 25 days to allow for critical repairs, resurfacing and expansion works.
In a statement issued on Thursday, October 8, 2026, FAAN’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Henry Agbebire, disclosed that the closure is tentatively scheduled to commence on October 20, subject to final confirmation.
According to the authority, the planned shutdown has become necessary following the deterioration of sections of the runway, with potholes, surface cracks and damage reportedly worsened by recent heavy rainfall.
FAAN explained that the rehabilitation project will involve repairing damaged pavement, treating cracks and resurfacing affected sections to improve operational safety and restore the runway to an acceptable condition.
The project will also include a runway extension designed to accommodate wide-body aircraft as air traffic to the South-East continues to grow.
The authority said the intervention is particularly important ahead of the Christmas travel season, when passenger numbers and flight activity are expected to increase.
FAAN has advised passengers intending to travel through Owerri during the proposed closure to contact their respective airlines for information on flight schedules, possible disruptions and alternative travel arrangements.
It added that the final closure and reopening dates would be communicated after consultations with relevant stakeholders.
The proposed Owerri airport shutdown follows previous infrastructure rehabilitation initiatives at other Nigerian airports.
In April 2025, FAAN announced the temporary closure of Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu following damage to a critical section of its runway.
The authority also announced plans in June 2025 for the phased renovation of Terminal One at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos as part of efforts to modernise ageing airport infrastructure.
The planned rehabilitation in Owerri highlights the importance of maintaining airport infrastructure to ensure aviation safety, improve operational efficiency and accommodate the growing demand for air travel.
Written by Enitan Mudashiru
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