The Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri, Imo State, will be temporarily closed for about 25 days from October 20, 2026, to allow runway rehabilitation, resurfacing, and extension work ahead of the Christmas travel season.

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, announced the planned closure in a statement posted on X, saying the decision was necessary to improve aviation safety, operational efficiency and the airport’s capacity.

Keyamo said the Nigerian government and the Imo State government, led by Governor Hope Uzodimma, agreed to the temporary closure to allow contractors to carry out the work.

According to the minister, the rehabilitation will involve repairing deteriorated sections of the runway pavement, treating extensive surface cracks, filling potholes, and resurfacing affected areas, alongside the planned runway extension.

He said the intervention was intended to restore the runway to a safer and more reliable operational condition.

The minister added that the completed extension was expected to improve the airport’s capacity to accommodate larger aircraft, including wide-body aircraft, subject to applicable operational and regulatory requirements.

Keyamo said the timing was important because passenger traffic and flight movements to Owerri and other parts of the South-East traditionally increase during the Christmas travel season.

He described the airport as a critical gateway for residents, businesses and economic activities in the region.

The minister acknowledged that the temporary shutdown would inconvenience passengers and other airport users but maintained that the work was necessary to ensure aviation safety.

“Aviation safety cannot be compromised, and the closure is necessary to enable contractors to carry out the required works effectively,” he said.

He added that the Nigerian government would continue engaging the Imo State Government, airlines and other aviation stakeholders to coordinate the rehabilitation and minimise disruption to travellers.

Passengers scheduled to travel through the airport during the closure have been advised to contact their respective airlines for information about flight cancellations, rescheduling and alternative travel arrangements.

Keyamo said official channels would communicate the confirmed closure and reopening dates.

The minister also commended the Imo State Government for its contribution to the runway extension project, describing the partnership as a joint effort to improve aviation infrastructure and strengthen air connectivity in the South-East.

The temporary closure comes as the airport prepares for infrastructure upgrades intended to support increased passenger traffic and accommodate larger aircraft, subject to the necessary operational and regulatory approvals.

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