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BY ANTHONY OMOH
The management of Port Harcourt International Airport (PHIA) has revealed fresh investment potential amid strong revenue growth, despite facing critical operational challenges.
PHIA, one of Nigeria’s major gateways, recorded a combined revenue of ₦21.4 billion and \$631,479 in forex between 2021 and 2024, showing a consistent upward trajectory. For the first half of 2025 alone, the airport earned over ₦7.4 billion and \$171,668.78 in forex, underscoring its growing financial viability for public-private partnerships (PPPs).
The airport’s performance was detailed by the Regional General Manager (South-South) and Airport Manager, Mrs. Ezike Ifesinachi Lynda, during a presentation at the just concluded Airport Business Summit and Expo in Lagos aimed at attracting private sector investors.
However, the presentation did not shy away from disclosing key weaknesses and threats affecting operations at PHIA. The SWOT analysis painted a complex picture of strength and vulnerability, combining rising demand with pressing infrastructural concerns.
Among PHIA’s strengths are its strategic location in Nigeria’s oil-rich economic hub, a land area exceeding 2,687 hectares for expansion, and existing world-class cargo and passenger terminals. These make the airport ideal for airline home base operations and potential e-commerce logistics hubs.
Yet, the analysis highlights serious weaknesses. Aging infrastructure, limited international airline presence—just four carriers—and heavy reliance on aviation-based income were cited. Also troubling are high operational costs, outdated manual processes, and an aging workforce in need of upskilling.
PHIA investment potential revealed even more layers when its threat landscape was examined. Regional airport competition, fluctuating fuel prices, spare parts shortages, and broader economic downturns are external risks affecting profitability and passenger traffic.
Nonetheless, airport authorities are optimistic that diversification through PPPs can mitigate many of these concerns. They propose expanding into non-aeronautical revenue streams such as hospitality, real estate, advertising, cold-chain logistics, and aircraft maintenance facilities.
PHIA has already demonstrated operational resilience with achievements like solar-powered infrastructure, LED lighting installations, emergency response upgrades, and terminal refurbishments. These sustainability initiatives align with the airport’s long-term vision of becoming a regional aviation hub for West Africa.
By implementing targeted PPP models such as Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) and concessions, the airport seeks to unlock investor capital while improving infrastructure, service delivery, and customer satisfaction.
As discussions progress, stakeholders are urged to seize the moment. With over ₦28 billion already generated in under five years and a supportive investment framework underway, Port Harcourt International Airport may yet become a cornerstone of Nigeria’s aviation-driven economic recovery.
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