The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), has voiced strong disapproval of the rehabilitation work carried out on the runway at Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, declaring himself “not impressed” after a recent inspection of the site.
In a statement posted to his official X handle on Saturday, Keyamo revealed that the federal government will shut down the airport’s runway for two weeks beginning April 22, 2025, to carry out emergency repair works due to escalating safety concerns.
“Dear compatriots, we have been compelled to take this decision to close the runway of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, for two weeks starting from April 22nd, 2025, in order to carry out major repair works on it,” he wrote.
The Minister highlighted that although the airport underwent major rehabilitation in 2019, the work failed to resolve persistent waterlogging issues, which have now resulted in cracks and potholes along the runway.
“Unfortunately, the waterlogged part of the runway was not properly constructed, leading to constant cracks and potholes. These obviously put the lives of the travelling public at great risk,” Keyamo said.
After personally inspecting the airport shortly after assuming office, Keyamo said he was “totally displeased” with the job delivered by the contractor.
“The cracks are becoming craters,” he added, noting that palliative works have so far failed to stop the deterioration.
“Scheduled flight operations to Enugu will be diverted to other neighbouring airports. We are going to work tirelessly to meet the timeline in order to mitigate the inconvenience,” he assured.
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), through its Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Obiageli Orah, also confirmed the temporary closure, stating it was necessary for urgent runway repairs.
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