SOUTH EAST GOVS CALL FOR DELAY IN REHABILITATION OF AKANU IBIAM INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

South East Governors’ Forum says the imminent closure of Akanu Ibiam International Airport for the rehabilitation of its runway by the Federal Government is so prompt and will pose security challenges to travelers.

Speaking in Abakaliki, the Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Ebonyi State, Chief David Umahi noted that the body had written to President Muhammadu Buhari on the need to rework the timetable for the project.

He said given that flights would be diverted to Sam Mbakwe Airport Owerri, Imo and Portharcourt International Airport in Rivers State, it was imperative that government  beefed up security and increase surveillance on major highways linking the alternative airports to protect travelers and visitors from criminals.

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, FAAN few days ago notified airlines, passengers and other stakeholders that the runway of the Airport would be closed for major repairs.

FAAN’s General Manager, Corporate Affairs, Mrs Henrietta Yakubu explained that the closure would take effect from August 24, 2019.

OBIORA EZE