In a move set to transform Nigeria’s aviation landscape, the Federal Government has formally signed a concession agreement for the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, signalling a major step in its drive to modernise airports through public-private partnerships.
The historic agreement was inked on Wednesday at the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development in Abuja by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo, SAN. The ceremony brought together officials from the Enugu State Government and representatives of Aero Alliance, the concessionaire tasked with modernising and operating the airport.
Leading the Enugu State delegation was the Commissioner for Transport, Dr Obi Ozor, while Aero Alliance was represented by Engr Chuks Aniekwe, Barrister Oyiwodu Okibe-Oga, Onyedikachi Nwachukwu, Kester Enwereonu, and Barrister Michael Nwaechie of Ivy Solicitors. Key officials from the ministry and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) were also in attendance, including Permanent Secretary Dr Yakubu Adams Kofarmata and FAAN Managing Director Mrs Olubunmi Kuku.
Addressing the gathering, Minister Keyamo described the signing as the culmination of a rigorous and transparent process that began several years ago, culminating in the Federal Executive Council’s approval on July 31, 2025.
“Today marks the end of a very long and meticulous process regarding the concession of the Enugu Airport,” Keyamo said. “We have engaged extensively with aviation unions to ensure that workers’ rights and welfare remain fully protected. No employee has been retrenched; their terms of employment remain unchanged, and they continue as employees of the Federal Government and FAAN.”
The minister emphasised that the concession framework prioritises job security, staff welfare, and operational efficiency. He noted that while the principal agreement has been concluded, two operational matters—security charges and the airport’s financial model—would be finalised in the coming weeks.
“There are two outstanding issues relating to the operationalisation of the agreement. These will be resolved shortly to ensure a smooth implementation. Nevertheless, the main concession agreement has been signed, and Aero Alliance is now officially entrusted with the development and operation of Enugu Airport,” Keyamo added.
The concession is expected to enhance passenger experience, improve operational efficiency, and attract investments to the aviation sector, reinforcing Nigeria’s commitment to modernising its transport infrastructure through strategic partnerships.
