The Nigerian government has taken a significant step towards modernizing its aviation infrastructure with the signing of a concession agreement for the Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu State. Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, signed the agreement with Aero Alliance, the concessionaire, in a ceremony held at the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development in Abuja.
The Enugu State government was represented by the Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Obi Ozor, while the Aero Alliance team included Engr. Chuks Aniekwe and other officials. The Federal Government was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Dr. Yakubu Adams Kofarmata, and the Managing Director/Chief Executive of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku.
The concession agreement marks a major milestone in the Federal Government’s drive to improve Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure through public-private partnerships. According to Minister Keyamo, the process began several years ago and involved extensive negotiations with aviation unions to ensure that workers’ welfare was prioritized. He emphasized that the rights and privileges of workers have been fully respected and preserved, with no retrenchments or changes to their terms and conditions of employment.
The concession framework prioritizes job security and staff interests, with the Minister noting that workers have not been short-changed in any way. The agreement covers all critical issues, with two operational matters – security charges and the financial model for airport operations – to be resolved in the coming weeks.
The concession of Akanu Ibiam International Airport is part of the Federal Government’s broader aviation sector reform agenda, aimed at attracting private investment, improving infrastructure, and boosting regional connectivity. The move is expected to reposition the airport for efficiency, improved service delivery, and enhanced passenger experience.
The development is a significant step towards strengthening Nigeria’s aviation competitiveness and improving the country’s overall economic growth. With the concession agreement in place, the airport is poised for major upgrades and improvements, which will have a positive impact on the local economy and the country’s aviation industry as a whole. The resolution of the outstanding operational issues will be crucial in ensuring the smooth implementation of the concession agreement.
