The Federal Government has temporarily shut down Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu due to emergency runway repairs beginning April 18, 2025.
According to the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, a sudden rupture in the asphalt surface triggered the urgent need for closure. The airport will remain shut from April 22 to May 6, 2025, to facilitate immediate runway rehabilitation.
However, Ibom Air revealed that operations had already ceased at 23:00hrs on April 18. The airline stated flights to and from Enugu will remain suspended until April 27, 2025, to allow critical maintenance.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo explained via his X handle that the situation stemmed from past construction failures. He recalled that a similar runway closure occurred in August 2019, which lasted a full year while the government awarded a contract for total rehabilitation.
Unfortunately, Minister Keyamo noted, the waterlogged portion of the runway was not properly reconstructed to resolve underlying issues. This oversight caused constant cracks and potholes, which he said endangered the travelling public’s safety.
“We have been carrying out palliative works, but the cracks are becoming craters,” he stated. “I visited the airport months after assuming office and expressed my total displeasure with the contractor’s work.”
Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at FAAN, Mrs. Obiageli Orah, explained that the runway had become unsafe. She said the closure ensures passenger safety while enabling authorities to modernize airport infrastructure.
“All landing and takeoff operations are suspended,” she said. “We regret the disruption and seek the public’s understanding during this vital process.”
Due to the closure, major airlines have suspended all flights to Enugu. United Nigeria Airlines, Air Peace, and Ibom Air have each announced alternative arrangements.
United Nigeria Airlines has rerouted flights to Chinua Achebe Airport in Anambra. Passengers are advised to revise their travel plans and contact customer care for assistance.
Spokesperson Chibuike Uloka said, “This situation is regrettable, especially during Easter travel. Passengers should use Anambra Airport if feasible.”
Air Peace has also diverted all Enugu flights to Asaba International Airport. The airline’s Head of Operations, Dr. Ejike Ndiulo, noted that suspending flights is essential for safety.
“Emergency runway repairs begin now,” Dr. Ndiulo added. “We support FAAN’s efforts to ensure flight safety and hope operations resume soon.”
Ibom Air announced its support for the temporary closure, urging affected passengers to contact its help desks in Lagos, Abuja, and Enugu.
“We understand the inconvenience and appreciate the public’s patience. Safety is our number one priority,” the airline stated.
FAAN confirmed the repairs are being expedited to restore the airport’s full functionality as soon as possible. Travelers are encouraged to remain updated through official channels.
The agency also appealed to stakeholders for cooperation as it works to enhance aviation infrastructure nationwide.
