Federal Government ,Aero Alliance Seal Historic Concession Deal for Enugu Airport

The Federal Government has officially signed a concession agreement for the management of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu.

The agreement was formalized on Thursday, January 22, 2026, between the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development and Aero Alliance Limited.

According to TheCable, the signing ceremony was presided over by the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, was witnessed by key officials from the Enugu State government, signaling a strong state-federal collaboration to revitalize the South-East’s major aviation hub.

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The move follows the Federal Executive Council’s (FEC) approval in July 2025 of a full business case for a 30-year concession period.

This long-term arrangement is designed to inject private sector efficiency and capital into the airport’s operations, addressing years of infrastructural deficits.

Minister Keyamo noted that the concession is part of a broader administration strategy to elevate Nigeria’s airport infrastructure to global standards without overburdening the national budget.

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He expressed optimism that the partnership with Aero Alliance Limited would transform the passenger experience and boost cargo operations in the region.

However, the Minister acknowledged that the transition is not yet fully complete. Speaking at the event, Keyamo highlighted two critical outstanding operational issues that must be resolved in the coming weeks: the finalization of security charges and the agreement on a sustainable financial model for the airport’s operations.

He assured stakeholders that these details are being fast-tracked to ensure a seamless handover.

Once fully implemented, the concession is expected to unlock the economic potential of the South-East zone, facilitating trade and tourism by ensuring the airport operates reliably and safely.

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