Enhancing the Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu through the completion of the international terminal, construction of a cargo terminal, and establishment of warehouses is a joint effort by the Enugu State Government and the Federal Government. A committee has been formed to refine the terms of cooperation between the state government and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to facilitate the much-awaited infrastructural upgrade.
The Managing Director of FAAN, Mrs. Olubunmi Oluwaseun Kuku, commended the partnership between Enugu State Government and FAAN, acknowledging the strategic importance of improving critical infrastructure at the airport to enhance operational efficiency in cargo handling, domestic, and international passenger services. She emphasized that the infrastructural upgrade would boost business opportunities in the South East region, promote wealth creation, alleviate poverty, and elevate the GDP of states within the zone.
Studies conducted by the International Civil Aviation Organization and the International Airport Transport Association have highlighted the economic significance of airports as drivers of growth. Mrs. Kuku underscored the potential for significant GDP growth through investments in airport infrastructure, stressing the need for swift actions towards project implementation through the signing of essential Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs).
Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, reiterated his administration’s commitment to positioning the state as a prime destination for investments, business activities, tourism, and residence. The aim is to boost the state’s economy from the current $4.4 billion GDP to $30 billion GDP within the next four to eight years. To achieve this ambitious goal, the governor recognized the importance of providing a conducive environment, including top-notch airport facilities, aviation services, and logistics infrastructure to attract private investors.
Highlighting the state’s tourism aspirations, Governor Mbah outlined projections for a substantial influx of visitors and flights into Enugu, necessitating the upgrade and expansion of existing airport facilities. He expressed optimism about resolving initial challenges with the Nigerian Airforce concerning the cargo terminal’s proposed location, citing a successfully executed Memorandum of Understanding with the military that cleared the path for project commencement.
The Commissioner for Transportation in Enugu State, Dr. Obi Ozor, will chair the Committee tasked with overseeing the infrastructural upgrade project, while Mr. Hycienth Ngwu, FAAN’s Head of Business Development, will serve as the co-chair.