The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has disclosed that airports across Nigeria are being operated at a financial loss, emphasizing the urgent need for private sector involvement to make them profitable and sustainable.
Speaking on Monday at the official launch of Enugu Air, an indigenous airline owned by Enugu State, Keyamo revealed that government-run airports lack the operational efficiency and financial drive that private operators bring.
“There is no government that can profitably run airports in Nigeria anymore,” Keyamo stated. “We are operating these airports at a loss because we lack the private sector’s drive. I say this openly, without apology.”
Clarification on Enugu Airport Concession
Addressing public concerns about the fate of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu, Keyamo clarified that the federal government is not selling the airport but is in the process of concessioning it to credible private investors.
“I’ve seen comments suggesting that we’re selling Enugu Airport. That’s not true. We are concessioning it — a process fully backed by Mr. President, FAAN, the Ministry of Aviation, and relevant National Assembly committees,” he explained.
According to the minister, private investors will upgrade and manage the airport, including developing a modern cargo terminal that will boost exports and create employment opportunities for the people of Enugu State.
Governor Mbah Praised for Investment Drive
Keyamo commended Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State for proactively attracting private investments into the aviation sector. He disclosed that Mbah refused to wait for federal bureaucracy to act before seeking private partners to revive the airport.
“The governor told me, ‘I want to bring private sector investments into Enugu Airport. I can’t keep waiting for government bureaucracy to drive progress.’ Before long, leading airport management companies submitted proposals. In the next few months and years, this airport will be transformed,” Keyamo said.
Fast-Tracking Enugu Air’s Debut
On the launch of Enugu Air, Keyamo revealed that Governor Mbah was equally determined to fast-track the airline’s commencement by partnering with an existing operator holding an Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC).
“I told the governor that it typically takes two years to process an airline’s AOC, but he wouldn’t wait. He partnered with XEJet, which already holds an AOC. And today, Enugu Air is flying,” the minister added.
A New Chapter for Enugu Aviation
With the concessioning of the airport and the debut of Enugu Air, Keyamo affirmed that Enugu State is positioning itself as a regional aviation hub, capable of handling both passenger and cargo services while driving economic growth and job creation.
