The Federal Government and the Imo State Government have agreed to temporarily close the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri for approximately 25 days to allow for runway rehabilitation and extension works.

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, announced the planned closure, which is scheduled to begin on October 20, 2026, as part of efforts to improve aviation safety and upgrade the airport ahead of the Christmas travel season.

According to reports by Channels Television and TVC News, the decision followed consultations between the minister, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma and other aviation stakeholders in the South-East. The project will be executed through the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) in collaboration with the state government.

The planned rehabilitation will involve repairs to deteriorated sections of the runway pavement, treatment of surface cracks, filling of potholes and resurfacing of affected areas. The project will also include extending the runway to improve its capacity to accommodate larger aircraft, subject to applicable operational and regulatory requirements.

Keyamo explained that the timing of the intervention was important because air travel to Owerri and other parts of the South-East typically increases during the Christmas period. He said the improvements were intended to provide a safer and more reliable runway while supporting efficient airport operations.

The minister acknowledged that the temporary closure could inconvenience passengers and other airport users. He appealed for their understanding and advised travellers scheduled to fly through Owerri during the affected period to contact their respective airlines for information on possible cancellations, rescheduling and alternative travel arrangements.

He also said the Federal Government would continue to engage the Imo State Government, airlines and other relevant stakeholders to coordinate the project and minimise disruption to passengers.

Although the closure is expected to last approximately 25 days from October 20, the minister indicated that the confirmed closure and reopening dates would be communicated through the appropriate official channels. Travellers are therefore advised to monitor announcements from FAAN and their airlines before making travel arrangements.