BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has announced plans to temporarily close the runway at Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, Owerri, Imo State, for about 25 days from October 20, 2026, to carry out repairs and resurfacing works.
The proposed closure, which is subject to final confirmation, is aimed at fixing damaged sections of the runway and improving safety ahead of the expected increase in air travel during the Christmas season.
FAAN said the repairs had become necessary following the deterioration of parts of the runway, including potholes and extensive surface cracks, which had been worsened by recent heavy rainfall.
The planned rehabilitation will involve pavement repairs, treatment of cracks and resurfacing of affected sections to restore the runway to a safer operational condition.
The project will also include an extension of the runway to enable the airport to accommodate wide-body aircraft as passenger traffic to the South-East region grows.
According to the authority, the expansion is expected to improve airport operations, enhance passenger comfort and provide a smoother travel experience for air travellers using the facility.
The temporary closure could affect flight operations to and from Owerri during the proposed repair period. FAAN has, therefore, advised passengers planning to travel through the airport to contact their airlines for updates on flight schedules and possible alternative arrangements.
The authority said it would continue to engage relevant stakeholders and announce the confirmed closure and reopening dates once they had been finalised.
In a statement, FAAN’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Henry Agbebire, appealed to passengers and other airport users to cooperate with the authority as it undertakes the project.
He said the intervention was part of FAAN’s commitment to ensuring safe, efficient and reliable airport operations.
The proposed closure comes ahead of the busy Christmas travel period, when passenger traffic typically increases as Nigerians travel to their home states and other destinations for the festive season.
FAAN said the planned repairs and runway extension were intended to improve the airport’s operational condition and prepare it for growing passenger demand.
Olapeju is a journalist and aviation reporter.
