The Enugu State Caucus in the House of Representatives has declared its full support for the federal government’s decision to concession the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, describing the move as a crucial step towards unlocking the economic potential of the South East region.
In a statement jointly signed by the Caucus Leader, Hon. Nnolim Nnaji, alongside Hon. Martins Oke, Hon. Dennis Agbo, Hon. Anayo Onwuegbu, Hon. Chimaobi Atu, Hon. Sunday Umeha, Hon. Paul Nnamchi, and Hon. Mark Obetta — representatives of all eight federal constituencies in Enugu State — the lawmakers urged the federal government to expedite the concession process for the benefit of the region and the country at large.
The caucus applauded the initiative, noting that for over two decades, Akanu Ibiam International Airport has remained an international facility only in name, owing to poor capital investment. They cited critical gaps such as the absence of a functional cargo terminal, the need for an upgraded runway, and the lack of a completed international terminal building, among others.
“Businesses and the people of the South East have long borne the heavy burden of these inadequacies, including the limited availability of international flights and the recurring closure of the airport for runway repairs,” the statement noted.
According to the caucus, concessioning the airport is the only realistic pathway to attracting the necessary private sector investment needed to build and expand critical infrastructure, positioning Akanu Ibiam International Airport among leading international airports worldwide.
Clarifying misconceptions about the process, the lawmakers stressed that concessioning does not amount to the sale or privatization of the airport. Rather, it is a well-established Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model where private capital is injected into public infrastructure projects, with the government retaining ownership and regulatory oversight.
“We urge the federal government to fast-track this process so that the people of the South East and indeed all Nigerians can begin to reap the benefits of this development,” the caucus appealed.
They further expressed confidence in the federal government, through the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, to ensure that only a concessionaire with proven financial strength, international experience, and a track record of success is selected for the project.
“Nothing short of this standard is acceptable. We believe it is key to catalysing the much-needed economic prosperity and transformation of the South East region,” the statement concluded.