The federal government has formally signed the concession agreement for Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, marking a significant step in the modernization of Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure. The ceremony took place at the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development in Abuja, where the Minister, Festus Keyamo, received a joint delegation from the Enugu State Government and representatives of the concessionaire, Aero Alliance.
The Enugu State team was led by the Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Obi Ozor, while Aero Alliance’s delegation included Engr. Chuks Aniekwe, Barr. Oyiwodu Okibe-Oga, Onyedikachi Nwachukwu, Kester Enwereonu, and Barr. Michael Nwaechie of Ivy Solicitors.
In a statement released on Friday by his Media Aide, Tunde Moshood, Minister Keyamo described the signing as the conclusion of a lengthy and transparent process that began several years ago. He explained that the Federal Executive Council approved the airport concession on July 31, 2025, subject to contract finalization.
Keyamo emphasized that the negotiations between the Ministry, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), and Aero Alliance involved extensive consultations with aviation unions to ensure that the welfare and rights of workers were fully protected.
“We did these agreements with the rights and privileges of workers uppermost in our minds. Let me say today that we have fully respected and preserved the rights of aviation workers. They have not been retrenched, their terms and conditions of employment have not changed in any way, and they remain workers of the Federal Government and FAAN,” he said.
While the main concession agreement has been concluded, Keyamo noted that minor operational issues, including security charges and the airport’s financial model, will be resolved in the coming weeks to ensure smooth implementation.
The Minister expressed optimism that the concession will reposition Enugu Airport for improved efficiency, enhanced service delivery, and a better passenger experience, ultimately boosting the state’s connectivity and economic potential.
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