The Federal Government has officially transferred the management of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport (AIIA), Enugu, to Aero Alliance Limited under a concession agreement aimed at transforming the airport into a major aviation, logistics and commercial hub for Nigeria’s South-East region.
Newsonspot gathered that the handover, which took place on Thursday, concludes a long-awaited public-private partnership that will see Aero Alliance Limited finance, rehabilitate, expand, operate and manage the airport in line with international aviation standards.
A major highlight of the agreement is the planned commencement of direct cargo flights between Enugu and Guangzhou, China, within the coming months. The initiative is expected to boost international trade, improve export opportunities and stimulate economic growth across the South-East.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, said the concession became possible under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu after nearly two decades of unsuccessful attempts.
According to the minister, previous concession exercises attracted investors mainly to Lagos, Abuja and Kano airports, while Enugu and Port Harcourt received little or no interest. He noted that the successful concession of the Enugu airport has renewed investor confidence in Nigeria’s aviation sector and opened the door for similar partnerships across the country.
Keyamo also praised Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah for his vision and commitment, revealing that shortly after assuming office, the governor presented a comprehensive development plan for the airport to President Tinubu, who directed the Federal Government to provide the necessary support.
He said the governor’s efforts, including the establishment of Enugu Air and the attraction of private investors, played a significant role in making the concession a reality.
In his remarks, Governor Peter Mbah described the concession as a landmark achievement that will position Enugu as a leading aviation, logistics and investment hub in West Africa. He noted that the project aligns with the state’s long-term economic development agenda and will attract investments, improve airport infrastructure, enhance passenger experience and create new business opportunities.
The event was attended by senior officials of the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), Aero Alliance Limited and other key stakeholders.
Government officials expressed optimism that the concession would usher in a new era of private-sector participation in Nigeria’s aviation industry, leading to improved efficiency, world-class airport facilities and sustainable growth in air transport services.
