Air travellers using Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri may need to adjust their travel plans later this month, as the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) prepares for a possible 25-day runway shutdown.
The planned interruption, which is yet to receive final confirmation, is expected to start on October 20, 2026, to enable engineers to repair damaged sections of the runway and carry out resurfacing work before the busy Christmas travel period.
FAAN announced the proposed closure in a statement signed by its Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Henry Agbebire. The agency attributed the need for the intervention to deteriorating runway conditions, including potholes and widespread cracks that have been worsened by heavy rainfall.
Beyond fixing the damaged pavement, the project will involve extending the runway to enable the airport to handle wide-body aircraft. FAAN said the additional capacity was intended to accommodate growing air traffic to the region and improve the experience of passengers.
The authority urged travellers scheduled to fly through Owerri during the proposed closure to contact their airlines for information about possible changes to flight schedules and alternative travel arrangements.
It said the final shutdown and reopening dates would be communicated after consultations with relevant stakeholders had been concluded.
FAAN appealed to airport users to cooperate with the planned works, describing the intervention as necessary to support safer and more reliable airport operations.
