Owerri Airport Set to Close in October
OWERRI, NIGERIA — The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has announced plans for a proposed temporary closure of the runway at the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri, Imo State.
The shutdown is required to facilitate essential structural repairs and critical resurfacing works.
According to an official statement issued by Henry Agbebire, FAAN’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, the closure is tentatively scheduled to begin on 20 October 2026 and will last for approximately 25 days, subject to final confirmation.
FAAN disclosed that the urgent intervention became necessary following the severe deterioration of several sections of the runway pavement. The runway has developed potholes and extensive surface cracking, safety hazards that have been aggressively worsened by recent heavy rainfall across the region.
The extensive rehabilitation project will involve deep pavement repairs, specialized crack treatment, and comprehensive resurfacing of all affected sections. The central objective is to restore the runway to a safe, optimal operational condition well ahead of the massive surge in passenger and flight traffic traditionally recorded during the upcoming Christmas holiday season.
Runway Extension for Wide-Body Aircraft
Beyond repairing the current structural damage, FAAN announced that the engineering intervention will feature a strategic extension of the runway.
As passenger volume and commercial traffic to the southeastern region continue to scale, extending the runway will successfully upgrade the airport’s infrastructure capacity, allowing it to safely accommodate wide-body aircraft. This expansion is designed to elevate overall passenger comfort and deliver a more seamless, efficient travel experience for regional commuters.
Advisory to Passengers and Airlines
With the tentative October 20 commencement date approaching, FAAN has advised all passengers intending to travel through Owerri during the 25-day window to remain in close contact with their respective airlines. Travelers are urged to monitor real-time updates regarding flight schedule adjustments, potential rerouting, or alternative travel arrangements.
The Authority emphasized that it is actively engaging with all relevant aviation stakeholders and will officially communicate the finalized closure and reopening dates as soon as the timelines are locked in.
