The Federal Government has temporarily shut down operations at Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu State to allow for urgent repairs on a damaged section of the runway.
This was disclosed in a statement released on Saturday by Obiageli Orah, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN).
According to Orah, the decision was made following the discovery of a serious rupture on a critical portion of the runway surface, which necessitated immediate attention.
“Due to a sudden and severe crack in the asphalt layer of the runway, emergency maintenance will take place from April 22 to May 6, 2025,” she announced.
She explained that the runway closure is in accordance with aviation safety regulations, and is part of the authority’s broader commitment to ensure the safety of passengers and maintain high operational standards.
“In line with Nigerian civil aviation regulations, FAAN has officially closed the runway to all aircraft movements throughout the repair period,” the statement added.
Orah urged travelers and stakeholders to remain patient and supportive as the agency works to restore the runway.
She confirmed that all incoming and outgoing flights originally scheduled for the airport would be redirected to other nearby airports.
“FAAN regrets the short notice of this closure and seeks the understanding of all affected passengers and operators,” she said.
Meanwhile, Air Peace, one of Nigeria’s leading carriers, had earlier announced the suspension of its flights to and from the Enugu airport.
The airline cited worsening infrastructure conditions at the facility, which it said pose safety risks to operations.