The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has announced plans to temporarily close the runway at Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri, Imo State, for approximately 25 days to carry out repairs and resurfacing.
The proposed closure is scheduled to begin on October 20, 2026, subject to final confirmation, according to a statement issued by FAAN’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Henry Agbebire.
The authority said the repairs had become necessary due to the deterioration of parts of the runway, including potholes and extensive surface cracks worsened by recent heavy rainfall.
According to FAAN, the rehabilitation will involve pavement repairs, crack treatment and resurfacing of affected sections to improve the runway’s safety and operational condition ahead of the anticipated increase in passenger traffic during the Christmas season.
The project will also include an extension of the runway to enable the airport to accommodate wide-body aircraft as air traffic to the region grows.
FAAN advised passengers planning to travel through Owerri during the proposed closure period to contact their airlines for updates on flight schedules and possible alternative arrangements.
The authority added that it would communicate the confirmed closure and reopening dates once they had been finalised, while assuring airport users of its commitment to safe and reliable operations.

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