The Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has directed the temporary closure of runway 17/35 of the Sam Mbakwe Airport, Owerri for 25 days from October 20, 2026.

In a statement signed by the airport manager, Dr. Al-Ihekwaba Nkechi, FAAN stated that the planned closure has become necessary following the current condition of the runway pavement, which has progressively deteriorated, with the presence of potholes, surface cracks and extensive alligator cracking at various sections.

The airport manager stated that although palliative repairs have been undertaken from time to time, the continuous heavy rainfall experienced in recent months has significantly affected the durability and effectiveness of such interventions.

With the commencement of the dry season, FAAN stated that it considers this period most suitable to undertake the required comprehensive repairs and resurfacing works to restore the runway to an acceptable and safer operational condition.

The Authority further stated that the intervention is particularly important in view of the anticipated increase in flight operations and passenger traffic during the Christmas peak period.

It said it therefore considered it necessary to address the runway defects now, rather than risk further deterioration that could adversely affect safe and efficient flight operations during the peak season.

The proposed works will include, but are not limited to repairs of identified potholes and failed pavement sections, treatment and sealing of surface cracks, remediation of alligator cracks and other areas of pavement distress resurfacing of affected sections of the runway and other associated remedial works considered necessary to restore the integrity and serviceability of the runway.

The statement read: “All stakeholders are requested to take note of the proposed closure period and make the necessary operational and logistical arrangements.

“Airlines and other operational stakeholders are particularly advised to make appropriate contingency arrangements for flight schedules during the period of the closure.

“Management will continue to engage all relevant stakeholders and provide further updates on the final closure date, commencement of works and anticipated reopening date as soon as these are confirmed.”

In the same vein, Runway 18L/36R of the Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos,

Runway 21/03 Port Harcourt Airport and Runway 06/24 of the Mallam Aminu Kano airport will also be shut down for rehabilitation, though no date has been confirmed yet. (The Sun)