In an effort to expedite the modernization of aviation infrastructure and enhance service delivery within Nigeria's aviation industry, the Federal Government has formally finalized the concession deal for the Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu. Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, signed an agreement containing this on January 22, 2026, at the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development in Abuja. Senior officials from the Federal Government and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), as well as representatives of the airport's concessionaire, Aero Alliance, were present at the ceremony.
Dr. Obi Ozor, the Commissioner for Transport, led the team from Enugu State, while Engineer Chuks Aniekwe, Barrister Oyiwodu Okibe-Oga, Onyedikachi Nwachukwu, Kester Enwereonu, and Barrister Michael Nwaechie of Ivy Solicitors represented the Aero Alliance.
Dr. Yakubu Adams Kofarmata, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development; Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, Managing Director and Chief Executive of FAAN; Mrs. Bridget Iwinose Gold, Director of Legal Services at FAAN; and other senior FAAN and ministry officials were also present.
Speaking at the event, Keyamo characterized the signing as the result of a protracted, stringent, and open process that took place over a number of years. He noted that on July 31, 2025, the Federal Executive Council approved the concession of the Enugu Airport, pending the completion of the provisions of the contract.
The Minister claims that significant talks between the Ministry, FAAN, and Aero Alliance, as well as comprehensive engagements with aviation unions, took place during the time after the council's decision. He emphasized that these interactions were purposefully designed to guarantee the complete protection of aviation workers' rights, welfare, and job security.
He emphasized that job security was a fundamental component of the deal and reassured stakeholders and employees that no employee had suffered as a result of the concession arrangement.
The Minister pointed out that the parties only resolved other crucial operational and contractual issues after attending to the workers' concerns. In addition to announcing the primary concession agreement's conclusion,
Keyamo revealed that two unresolved operational issues—security-related fees and the airport's financial operating model—would be settled in the upcoming weeks to facilitate the concession's smooth implementation.
He expressed optimism that the concession would reposition the Akanu Ibiam International Airport for increased efficiency, improved passenger experience, and higher service standards, calling the ceremony significant.