Air travellers from the South East who rely on the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, for their business, may have cause to smile after one year.
This is because, the Minister of Aviation Senator Hadi Sirika has disclosed that the airport, which has been closed for almost one year for repairs will finally be reopened on August 30, 2020.
The airport was shut down on August 24, 2019 for rehabilitation of the three-kilometre runway with a promise that it would be ready for use in December last year.
Works on the airport however dragged to March when the coronavirus pandemic further altered the rehabilitation works, thus shifting completion of the work.
Sirika, who was in Enugu on Tuesday for inspection of the rehabilitation works, however told newsmen that the airport would be reopened for use again by the end of August.
Sirika said: “We have about 90 to 95 percent completion of this job. Other works including perimeter fencing and airfield lightening are going on to ensure they are delivered so it can really answer it’s name, Akanu Ibiam International airport Enugu.
“Rainy season is also a monster in delivering a procurement of this nature but the contractor is dong his best.
“I am very happy with the pace of works and I am very confident that this procurement will be delivered on the 30th of August 2020.
” This is in due consideration to the wheather, but with the help of God, we will deliver this procurement on the 30th of August. So will be inviting you either on the 30 or 31st to reopen this runway for use.”
He expressed appreciation to the South East Governors, particularly Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu state for their efforts and assistance in the job.
