FG debunks reports on concession duration of Enugu airport
The Federal Government has refuted recent online reports suggesting that a fixed and lengthy concession period has been agreed upon for the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu. The Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development described the claims as baseless and misleading.
In a press statement issued on Monday, the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), clarified that while the government is evaluating proposals for the concession of five major airports across the country, no decision has been made regarding the duration of any concession arrangement.
“Prospective concessionaires have submitted various proposals, including different durations, but these are still undergoing thorough evaluation,” the statement read.
“The Ministry has not fixed any duration, and all proposals will be reviewed by the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC) before being presented to the Minister and, subsequently, to the Federal Executive Council (FEC) for approval.”
The Aviation Ministry emphasized that the move to concession some of Nigeria’s major airports is part of efforts to improve service delivery and maintain international standards amid rising operational costs. It noted that many airports currently operate at a financial loss and are subsidized monthly by the Federal Government. The concession initiative, he added, predates the current administration.
To ensure transparency, the Minister had earlier directed that representatives of aviation labour unions be included in the negotiation process.
“The Honourable Minister remains committed to running the Ministry in an open and accountable manner. He will not permit any form of irregularity under his watch,” it read. “Any suggestion of a predetermined concession agreement is false and intended to stir disaffection among stakeholders.”
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to a transparent, inclusive, and legally compliant process, assuring Nigerians that all decisions will prioritize national interest and the long-term viability of the aviation sector.
