Festus Keyamo, minister of aviation and aerospace development, says the federal government is running Enugu airport at a loss due to the absence of private sector efficiency.
On April 21, the aviation ministry said the federal government plans to concession the Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu, but no concessionaire has been selected yet.
The ministry said it is still evaluating proposals from prospective concessionaires and has not determined any fixed duration for the airport’s concession.
Speaking on Monday at the launch of Enugu Air, Keyamo said the planned concession of the airport has the full backing of President Bola Tinubu, the national assembly, and key aviation stakeholders.
Advertisement
“I have seen some commentaries saying, ‘Oh no, we are selling Enugu airport.’ we are concessioning it,” the minister said.
“There is no way government can run the airport again in Nigeria for profit. We are running the airport at a loss because we don’t have the drive of the private sector. I am saying it openly and I have no apologies.
“As I speak with you, the process is supported by Mr. President. The process is supported by FAAN. The process is supported by the minister of aviation. The process is supported by the committees of national assembly. The process is supported by all.”
Advertisement
He said discussions are at an advanced stage to hand over the management of Enugu airport to private investors, including plans to revamp the cargo terminal.
“We are just at the process of handing Enugu Airport to private investors who will come and make this place open including the cargo terminal,” Keyamo said.
“You can then process exports directly from Enugu here, the cargo terminal here, for the good of Enugu people, and for the employment of Enugu people.“
The minister said Enugu airport will undergo significant transformation in the coming months and years, as private sector participation — championed by the state governor — is set to reshape its operations.
Advertisement
