The Federal Government has debunked reports claiming that a long-term concession agreement has already been concluded for the Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu.
In a statement issued by Tunde Moshood, Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, the Ministry described such claims as
“baseless, misleading and utterly false.”
While acknowledging that proposals for the concession of five major airports, including Enugu, are currently under review, the Ministry emphasised that no final decision has been made regarding duration or terms.
“Prospective concessionaires have indeed submitted various proposals, including different durations for the concession.
“However, the Ministry has not established any fixed duration. All proposals are undergoing thorough evaluation and will be reviewed by the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC) before being presented to the Federal Executive Council (FEC) for approval.”
He explained that the concession initiative, which began under previous administrations, is a proactive strategy to improve the quality of airport infrastructure and operations, especially as many airports currently run at a financial loss and rely heavily on government subsidies.
To ensure accountability and inclusiveness, Moshood revealed that the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, had earlier directed that aviation labour unions be included in the negotiation teams, a move widely seen as a boost to transparency.
“We must state unequivocally that the information suggesting a predetermined concession duration is false and intended to cause unwarranted disaffection and mistrust by those with entrenched interests,” Moshood said.
He reassured the public that all decisions regarding the concession process will be made in the best interest of the country and the aviation industry, adding that the Minister is committed to upholding transparency and due process throughout the exercise.
“With his track record and professional discipline, the Minister has maintained a transparent approach to governance and will not allow a repeat of past missteps,” he said.
The Ministry urged the public to disregard the speculative reports and trust in the ongoing reforms designed to strengthen Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure and boost international competitiveness.
