The Nigerian Government and the Enugu State government have announced their partnership to complete and operationalize the international wing of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu. Additionally, they will work together to construct a cargo terminal, aiming to boost the economy and tourism capacity of both the state and the country.
During a visit to Enugu in South-east Nigeria, Mr Kabir Mohammed, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), and Enugu State Governor, Dr Peter Mbah, inspected the ongoing international terminal building and the proposed site for the international cargo terminal of the airport.
Expressing his appreciation for Governor Mbah’s commitment and sense of urgency towards the completion and utilization of the two terminals, Mr Mohammed emphasized the importance of partnership and collaboration at this time. He stated, “This is a time to look at things again and again before you will be able to get the right formula for it, and I believe His Excellency has that formula, and within the shortest possible time, I can assure you that this terminal will be put to use.”
Notably, the establishment of a cargo terminal in Enugu is expected to have a significant impact on the economy of the South-East Zone and the nation as a whole, facilitating trade for businesses in the region. Governor Mbah underscored the importance of the cargo terminal for the state’s ambition to achieve a $30 billion economy, as it would enable agricultural and agro-allied produce to be exported.
The completion and operationalization of the international terminal were highlighted as crucial elements in Enugu’s economic development plan, particularly in relation to tourism. Governor Mbah noted that the state aims to attract over three million visitors annually and emphasized the necessity of an international airport to achieve this goal.
Despite the financial challenges associated with the project, Governor Mbah assured that the state government and FAAN would explore various funding models. He expressed confidence that the projects would be considered bankable due to their potential for generating revenue.
Further discussions between the state government and the FAAN team focused on establishing a timeline for the expedited completion of both projects. With a shared commitment to success, the partnership between the Nigerian Government and Enugu State holds great promise for the development and prosperity of the region.
