The Federal Government has dismissed widespread reports that it has agreed to an 80-year concession for the Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu, clarifying that no deal has been finalized and that all proposals remain under review.
In a statement released Monday, Tunde Moshood, Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, described the reports as “baseless and untrue.” He emphasized that while the government is considering concession proposals for five major airports, including Enugu, no agreement or fixed duration has been approved yet.
The Ministry explained that the review process is ongoing and involves key stakeholders such as the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC) and the Federal Executive Council (FEC). Various proposals with different terms have been submitted by prospective concessionaires, but none have received final approval.
“This is a proactive measure to ensure these vital facilities can meet and maintain international standards, given the increasing financial demands of their operations,” the statement read in part.
The Ministry also clarified that the airport concession initiative is not new, but a continuation of efforts by previous administrations to address financial challenges in the aviation sector. Many Nigerian airports require monthly government subsidies to remain operational, and the concession strategy aims to attract private sector investment to help these facilities meet international standards.
The Ministry stated that all concession decisions will be made in the national interest and with input from all relevant stakeholders.
As of now, no specific concession duration has been set for Enugu Airport or any of the other airports under consideration. The government urges the public to disregard misleading reports and assures that all developments will be communicated transparently as the process continues.
