The Federal Government has taken a major step toward modernising Nigeria’s aviation sector with the formal concession of Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu.
The concession agreement was signed by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, marking a key milestone in the government’s aviation reform agenda.
The signing ceremony, held at the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development in Abuja, brought together officials from the Enugu State Government and representatives of Aero Alliance, the concessionaire.
The Enugu delegation was led by the Commissioner for Transport, Obi Ozor, while the Aero Alliance team included Chuks Aniekwe, Barrister Oyiwodu Okibe-Oga, Onyedikachi Nwachukwu, Kester Enwereonu, and Barrister Michael Nwaechie of Ivy Solicitors.
Top federal aviation officials were also present, including Yakubu Adams Kofarmata, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry; Olubunmi Kuku, Managing Director and CEO of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN); and FAAN’s Director of Legal Services, Bridget Iwinose Gold.
Minister Keyamo described the event as the culmination of a “painstaking and transparent process” that began in July 2025, when the Federal Executive Council approved the proposal to concession the Enugu Airport.
He emphasised that workers’ welfare was central to the process, noting that aviation staff retained their employment with the Federal Government and FAAN, and their terms and conditions were fully protected.
“The workers have not been short-changed in any way. Their jobs are safe and protected,” Keyamo said.
The Minister also highlighted that two operational matters, security charges and the financial model for airport operations, will be finalised in the coming weeks to ensure smooth implementation.
Keyamo expressed confidence that the concession would enhance efficiency, improve service delivery, and boost passenger satisfaction at the Enugu Airport.
He noted that the move is part of a broader federal initiative to attract private investment, upgrade infrastructure, expand regional connectivity, and strengthen Nigeria’s position in global aviation.
