The signing of the concession agreement for Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s infrastructure reform agenda and a boost for the South-eastern economy. The Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC) described the deal as evidence of the Federal Government’s commitment to modernising national assets through Public-Private Partnerships under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
The agreement, executed by the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development and FAAN, followed a full PPP process under ICRC’s regulatory oversight, including business case certification, due diligence, Federal Executive Council approval and legal vetting. Officials said the transaction’s commercial close sends a strong signal to investors about Nigeria’s readiness to deepen private sector participation while safeguarding value for money and regulatory certainty.
The concession is expected to strengthen Enugu Airport’s role as a regional gateway, improving connectivity, tourism and trade. ICRC also highlighted the growing role of proactive subnational leadership, urging more states to leverage PPPs to drive inclusive growth.
