The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), in collaboration with the management of Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, has expressed strong appreciation to the Governor of Enugu State, Barr. (Dr.) Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, for what it described as sustained strategic support toward the transformation and operational strengthening of the airport.
In a formal correspondence dated April 14, 2026, FAAN specifically acknowledged the Governor’s recent donation of a brand-new Toyota Hilux vehicle to the airport, describing the gesture as timely and impactful in improving day-to-day operational efficiency, logistics coordination, and service delivery within the facility.
The Authority noted that the intervention reflects Governor Mbah’s broader commitment to aviation infrastructure development and his administration’s focus on positioning Enugu as a modern transportation and investment hub in the South-East.
Push for International Standards and Certification Progress
Beyond the material support, FAAN commended the Enugu State Government’s consistent engagement and “strategic interventions” in supporting the ongoing certification process of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport.
According to the Authority, the Governor’s commitment to infrastructure renewal and strict adherence to global aviation safety and operational standards has been central to advancing the airport’s compliance status.
FAAN further described the progress recorded so far as a significant milestone, noting that the airport is increasingly being positioned as a competitive and compliant international gateway capable of supporting increased passenger and cargo traffic.
The Authority said the development reflects what it termed the “visionary leadership, resilience, and development-driven agenda” of the current administration in Enugu State.
Request for Courtesy Visit and Certification Presentation
In the same letter, FAAN formally requested a courtesy visit to Governor Mbah upon the issuance of the airport’s certification.
The planned visit, according to the Authority, would provide an opportunity to officially present the certification document to the Governor in recognition of the collaborative efforts that contributed to achieving the milestone.
FAAN explained that the symbolic presentation would also serve to further strengthen institutional alignment between the federal aviation authorities and the Enugu State Government, particularly in sustaining the airport’s operational improvements and future expansion plans.
Commitment to Continued Collaboration
The letter, signed on behalf of the Managing Director/Chief Executive of FAAN by Mr Hillary Umunna, Regional General Manager (South-East) and Airport Manager, reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to continued collaboration with the state government.
“We remain deeply appreciative of your leadership and continued support and we look forward to strengthening this collaboration for the sustained growth and advancement of the airport,” the statement read.
Outlook
The renewed engagement between FAAN and the Enugu State Government underscores ongoing efforts to reposition Akanu Ibiam International Airport as a critical aviation hub in Nigeria’s South-East region. Stakeholders say the certification process, once completed, is expected to further boost investor confidence, improve connectivity, and enhance the airport’s role in regional economic development.
FAAN has commended Governor Peter Mbah for his support to Akanu Ibiam International Airport, including a vehicle donation and infrastructure interventions, as the airport moves closer to certification. The Authority has also requested a courtesy visit for the formal presentation of the certification upon approval.
FAAN praises Governor Peter Mbah’s support for Enugu Airport, including a vehicle donation and infrastructure backing, as certification nears for Akanu Ibiam International Airport.
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