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Enugu airport concession deal complete, as firm takes over management
Federal Government has formally transferred operation and management of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, to Aero Alliance Limited.
The development marks the conclusion of a concession process which commenced nearly two decades ago but stalled by trade unions’ disapproval, neighbouring communities’ protests, legal issues, and others.
During the handover ceremony, Thursday, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo confirmed that Aero Alliance Limited has officially assumed responsibility for the operation of the airport under the concession agreement.
The official handover ceremony at the Enugu airport complex had the State Governor, Mr Peter Mbah, top government officials, aviation stakeholders, representatives of the concessionaire, and industry regulators in attendance.
The minister described the development as a significant step toward improving airport efficiency, infrastructure investment, and passenger experience.
The concession forms part of the Federal Government’s broader strategy to attract private-sector capital into critical aviation infrastructure while allowing the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to concentrate on regulation, oversight, and the management of other airport assets.
Successive administrations have explored airport concessioning as a means of modernising Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure without placing additional pressure on public finances.
The concession of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport has undergone multiple reviews over the past two decades, with negotiations spanning different administrations before reaching completion.
In recent years, the airport has undergone extensive rehabilitation, including runway upgrades and the commissioning of a modern international terminal designed to improve operational capacity and passenger comfort, all undertaken by the federal government.
Keyamo further stated that the arrangement is expected to enhance service delivery, improve infrastructure maintenance, increase operational efficiency, and attract additional private investment into the facility.
The minister however, clarified that the concession arrangement does not imply sale of the airport.
“Ownership remains with the Federal Government, while the private operator assumes responsibility for managing and developing the facility under agreed contractual terms and regulatory oversight,” he stated.
