The Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Imo State has been temporarily closed for approximately 25 days to allow the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to carry out essential runway repairs and facility upgrades.
The project includes runway surface crack treatment, resurfacing and an extension designed to improve safety and enable the airport to accommodate larger aircraft.
The runway extension, according to sources, was also intended to prepare the airport for increased passenger traffic during the yuletide period.
The Federal Government and the Imo State Government are reportedly collaborating on the project to ensure that the work is completed within the expected timeframe.
The closure, which commenced on Monday, is expected to last about 25 days, with the upgrade aimed at improving the airport’s operational capacity ahead of the busy December travel season.
The airport serves as a major air transportation hub for residents of Imo State and neighbouring Abia State, many of whom rely on its services for domestic and other air travel.
FAAN had earlier explained that the temporary runway closure was necessary to carry out essential maintenance, including crack treatment, resurfacing and runway extension.
