The federal government is set to reopen Akanu Ibiam international airport in Enugu on Monday, April 28, more than a week ahead of schedule.
This is after emergency repairs on the facility’s runway were completed in record time.
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) had shut the airport on April 18 following the discovery of a critical rupture in the runway’s asphalt surface, prompting an urgent shutdown for safety reasons.
Initial projections slated the reopening for May 6, but swift intervention by FAAN engineers has accelerated the timeline.
“The runway is now cleared for landings and takeoffs,” FAAN said in a statement issued Saturday, thanking stakeholders for their patience during the disruption.
The unexpected closure temporarily severed air access to Nigeria’s southeast region, a key hub for business and travel.
The airport, which has seen rising traffic volumes in recent years, is a vital link in the nation’s aviation network.
FAAN emphasised that the expedited repairs were conducted with strict adherence to safety protocols, reaffirming its commitment to passenger safety and operational integrity.
“All actions were taken in the interest of safety,” the agency said, while expressing regret for the inconvenience caused.
The reopening is expected to restore momentum to regional travel and ease the burden on neighboring airports, which had absorbed redirected flights over the past week.
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