The Federal Government has officially concessioned the Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu to Aero Alliance Limited under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP), marking the first successful handover of the airport after more than 20 years of failed concession attempts.
The concession agreement was signed on Thursday at the airport’s new terminal by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, as part of the Federal Government’s efforts to modernise airport infrastructure, improve operational efficiency and attract private sector investment into the aviation sector.
ALSO READ: Neimeth shareholders approve additional N30bn capital raise
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Keyamo said previous concession efforts had stalled for over two decades because investors focused mainly on Lagos, Abuja and Kano airports, leaving Enugu and Port Harcourt with little interest.
He said the successful concession of the Enugu airport has renewed investor confidence in Nigeria’s aviation sector, adding that bids are already being prepared for three additional airports. He also disclosed that the Port Harcourt International Airport would be concessioned in the coming weeks.
📢 Stay Updated — Join Our WhatsApp Channel
💬 Be Part of Our WhatsApp Community
Join our WhatsApp Channel for curated updates, breaking stories, and exclusive insights from our newsroom.
📲 Join 👉 NRTC WhatsApp Channel
According to the minister, Aero Alliance Limited will assume responsibility for the management and operations of the airport, making it one of Nigeria’s first airport concessionaires. He urged the company to ensure efficient operations, noting that its performance would set the standard for future airport concessions.
Keyamo also credited the Enugu State Government for supporting the process, commending Governor Peter Mbah for helping attract investors. He further revealed that the state had signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish direct flights between Enugu and Guangzhou, China, to boost trade, tourism and investment.
ALSO READ: Rapper Ycee criticises Nigeria’s ‘Olodo Uprising’, says ignorance now rewarded over education
Addressing concerns over workers’ welfare, the minister said aviation labour unions had initially challenged the concession in court but later withdrew their suits after discussions with the government. He assured employees that their welfare would be protected under the new arrangement while airport operations become more efficient through private sector management.
Governor Peter Mbah described the concession as a major step toward positioning Enugu as a regional aviation, logistics and investment hub in West Africa. He said the initiative aligns with broader efforts to strengthen economic development in the South-East.
The concession is part of the Federal Government’s airport modernisation programme under the Renewed Hope Agenda, which aims to improve airport infrastructure, enhance passenger experience and increase the commercial viability of Nigeria’s airports.
