Keyamo Announces Planned 25-Day Owerri Airport Closure for Runway Works

Nigeria's aviation minister Festus Keyamo said on Friday that the federal and Imo State governments had agreed to temporarily close Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri for runway works. The closure is expected to begin on October 20, 2026, and last approximately 25 days. Keyamo said consultations with Governor Hope Uzodimma and stakeholders preceded the agreement, with work covering repairs, resurfacing and runway extension. The joint project involves the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria and Imo State government; confirmed closure and reopening dates will be communicated through formal aviation channels.