The Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport’s (SMICA) cargo terminal operations is projected to serve nearly 50 million people. Once fully operational, it will handle goods and services for major markets within Nigeria’s South-South and South-East zones, enhancing trade and economic activity in the region.
SMICA’s manager, Dr. Nkechi Ihekwaba, emphasized this potential at the Aviation Business Summit and Expo 2024 in Lagos. She urged investors, airline operators, and individuals to take advantage of the airport’s rapidly growing facilities, particularly the cargo terminal. This terminal, constructed to meet Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) regulations, includes warehouse facilities designed to accommodate increased cargo capacity. ” (SMICA’s) cargo terminal operations will be pivotal in expanding market access and logistics in the region,” Dr. Ihekwaba explained.
In 2015, former President Goodluck Jonathan approved SMICA’s upgrade to an international cargo airport.“The team has nearly completed the project, having installed the airfield lighting and now awaiting final NCAA clearance for activation. ‘We ensure all critical facilities are maintained for seamless operations,’ Dr. Ihekwaba added.”
Beyond the cargo terminal, SMICA has also witnessed substantial growth in passenger traffic. Dr. Ihekwaba revealed that SMICA, Nigeria’s first community-built airport, processes at least 62,000 passenger movements monthly during peak periods and 39,000 during off-peak times. The terminal building, with a capacity for 1,200 passengers, often accommodates up to 2,000 during peak times.
Since Dr. Ihekwaba assumed leadership, maintenance at SMICA has improved to 98%. The airport’s active apron accommodates four Boeing 737-800 series aircraft, while the extended apron can handle up to ten smaller aircraft, supported by Category 7 Aerodrome Fire Fighting Services.
Additionally, SMICA operates daily flights with airlines such as Air Peace, United Nigeria Airlines, Green Africa Airways, and Dana Air. It handles over 37 aircraft movements during political events, further boosting its significance in regional aviation.
SMICA’s strong security network and collaborative efforts with security agencies and local leaders have also contributed to its operational success. “Our focus on teamwork and communication has helped maintain a customer-friendly environment, resulting in zero incidents or accidents since my tenure began,” Dr. Ihekwaba noted.
Built through communal efforts, SMICA is now one of Nigeria’s fastest-growing domestic airports, servicing Imo, Abia, and Ebonyi states. It recently won the “All Nigeria Airport Manager Business Forum Contest” at the 2024 Airport Business Summit and Expo held in Lagos.
 cargo terminal operations will serve 50 million people, boosttrade in Nigeria’s South-South and East zones.){kind=link}