New Developments in Nigeria’s Aviation Sector as Akanu Ibiam International Airport Concession is Approved
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has officially approved the concession of Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu through a public-private partnership with Aero Alliance Limited. This initiative is part of a broader aviation reform strategy aimed at attracting private investment, enhancing regional connectivity, and elevating the passenger experience.
The concession ceremony marked the formal transfer of operational responsibilities for the airport to Aero Alliance Limited, as announced in a statement by Tunde Moshood, Special Assistant to the Minister on Media and Communications. This move aligns with the federal government’s goal of modernizing airport infrastructure and improving operational efficiency as outlined in President Bola Tinubu’s A New Hope Agenda.
Minister Keyamo highlighted that the pursuit of airport concessions has faced numerous challenges over the last two decades, but the current administration is making significant strides. “This concession, which has been years in the making, is a breakthrough achievement,” he remarked. Previously, investment interest centered primarily around major airports in Lagos, Abuja, and Kano, often overlooking places like Enugu and Port Harcourt. Keyamo emphasized that Enugu’s successful concession is now paving the way for similar initiatives, with Port Harcourt expected to follow suit shortly.
The Minister revealed that the successful concession of Enugu airport has fostered renewed investor confidence, and preparations are underway for tenders related to three additional airports across Nigeria. He credited Governor Peter Mba for his instrumental role in facilitating this project. Despite political differences, Keyamo noted, “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu directed me to provide all necessary support to Governor Mba, who has effectively brought investors to the table.”
Addressing concerns from airline employees, Keyamo assured workers that their welfare is a priority under the concession agreement. He acknowledged past legal challenges from airline unions but confirmed that these have been resolved as their concerns were understood. “I want to assure our workers that they are protected. However, this concession signals a new era focused on efficiency, accountability, and enhanced service delivery,” he stated.
Keyamo urged Aero Alliance Limited to uphold the trust granted by the federal government, emphasizing that its performance as a pioneering airport concessionaire will set the standard for future endeavors within the sector. He also announced a Memorandum of Understanding signed with the Enugu State government, which aims to establish direct flight connectivity between Enugu and Guangzhou, China, thus boosting trade, tourism, and investment opportunities in the South-East region.
Governor Peter Mba expressed his enthusiasm for the concession, describing it as a transformative initiative that aligns with the state government’s vision of establishing Enugu as a leading hub for aviation, logistics, and investment in West Africa. The statement further indicated that the concession of Akanu Ibiam International Airport will reinforce public-private partnerships, enhance the passenger experience, and contribute to the sustainable growth of Nigeria’s aviation industry. Notably, this process received a significant boost when the Federal Executive Council approved a comprehensive business case for the concession to Aero Alliance Limited in July 2025, culminating in the formal signing of the concession agreement in January 2026. Under this agreement, Aero Alliance will manage, operate, and renovate the airport, while ownership will remain with the federal government.
The airport concession aligns with the Enugu State Government’s broader strategy to transform the region into a pivotal aviation, logistics, and investment center, ultimately fostering economic growth through increased trade, tourism, and freight activities. The ceremony witnessed the presence of key stakeholders including the Governor of Enugu State, representatives from the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission, and Aero Alliance Limited.
