FG completes handover of Enugu Airport to concessionaires, extols Mbah’s role

The Federal Government has officially transferred management of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport (AIIA) in Enugu to Aero Alliance Limited, marking a significant step in the airport's modernization under a public-private partnership. Aero Alliance will now be responsible for financing, rehabilitating, expanding, operating, and managing the airport, aiming to elevate its standards to meet international benchmarks for safety, efficiency, and passenger experience.

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For 20 years, various governments have tried to concession some of our airports because of the belief that the private sector would run them more professionally and in a more commercially driven way.

During the handover ceremony, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, lauded the roles of President Bola Tinubu and Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah in realizing the long-stalled concession. Keyamo noted that while many airports were previously avoided by bidders, Enugu and Port Harcourt have now been successfully concessioned under the current administration. He specifically commended Governor Mbah for his proactive approach, presenting a clear plan for the airport shortly after taking office and securing presidential backing.

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However, under the able leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and under the visionary leadership of people like Dr. Peter Mbah, the reverse is the case.

"Mbah started with Enugu Air, and now he has brought in capital, brought in investors for the airport. So, I just want to say that Dr. Peter Mbah came with a plan for Enugu. He did not come and begin to assess the situation. He is a governor who came into office with a plan," Keyamo stated, emphasizing the strong federal-state partnership.

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Mbah started with Enugu Air, and now he has brought in capital, brought in investors for the airport. So, I just want to say that Dr. Peter Mbah came with a plan for Enugu. He did not come and begin to assess the situation. He is a governor who came into office with a plan.

Aero Alliance has pledged to transform AIIA into a leading regional aviation, logistics, and commercial hub in Africa. Minister Keyamo also addressed concerns about job security, assuring that the concession agreement is structured to create new employment opportunities rather than lead to job losses. The successful concession is viewed as a major breakthrough, opening new economic avenues for the South East region.

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We expect Aero Alliance Limited to discharge its responsibilities with the highest standards of professionalism, transparency, operational excellence, and commitment to safety.