Mbah hails 30-year concession of Enugu Airport, says deal will boost regional economy

Business, Economy & Policy

ENUGU, Nigeria (NPA) — Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah has described the concession of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport to Aero Alliance Limited as a landmark achievement that will accelerate economic growth, attract investment and strengthen the South-East’s position as a major commercial hub.

The Federal Government formally handed over the airport to Aero Alliance Limited on Thursday under a 30-year Public-Private Partnership (PPP) concession.

The handover ceremony, held at the airport’s new terminal, was performed by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, in the presence of aviation stakeholders, government officials and representatives of the concessionaire.

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Reacting to the development, Mbah described the occasion as a proud moment for Enugu State and the wider South-East region.

“Today is a proud day for me and for Ndi Enugu,” the governor said in a statement issued on Thursday.

“The Akanu Ibiam International Airport is more than a gateway to the South-East. It is a catalyst for commerce, connectivity, investment and economic growth.”

He said the commencement of Aero Alliance Limited’s stewardship of the airport marked a significant milestone after more than two decades of efforts to secure a private concessionaire for the facility.

According to Mbah, the 30-year concession will unlock greater economic opportunities, improve airport operations and reinforce Enugu’s position as a leading destination for business, tourism and investment.

“As we continue to build strategic partnerships and invest in critical infrastructure, our focus remains clear: creating a more connected, competitive and prosperous future for our people,” he said.

Industry analysts say the concession is expected to attract fresh investment, modernise airport infrastructure and improve service delivery, enhancing the airport’s status as an international gateway.

The development also aligns with the Enugu State Government’s broader aviation strategy, which includes plans to commence direct cargo flight operations between Enugu and Guangzhou, China, later this year to boost trade, exports and regional economic integration.