The Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, says the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu will reopen for normal business on August 30.
Mr Sirika gave assurance at Enugu airport on Tuesday after reviewing the pace of ongoing runway reconstruction and upgrade of other facilities to international standards.
He said that the project has been completed between 90 and 95 per cent.
The minister said the federal government is planning a swift intervention in the procurement to ensure that the dilapidated runway, which was a threat to operational safety, is fully addressed.
“We were on course, but unfortunately, COVID-19 came and the workers took to their heels to ensure that they remain safe.
“We are back on site and we have made a tremendous amount of progress.
“We are about 90 to 95 per cent completing this job.
“However, the final wearing course is where we are on the runway while the perimeter fencing and the road is going on.
“Also, other works, including airfield lighting for day and night operations and for it to truly answer its name – Akanu Ibiam International airport, Enugu,” he said.
The minister also said the rainy season was a problem in project procurement.
He, however, commended the contractor and the consultants for doing extremely well with the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN).
“I am happy with the progress of work.
“I am very confident that this procurement will be delivered on the 30th August, 2020.
“This, of course, is with the due consideration to the weather, but with the help of God, we will deliver this procurement on 30th of August for use with most of the associated works.
“I can say authoritatively that this runway is one of the best if not the best in the country at the moment.
“Turning pad of this runway is made of concrete.
“Unlike our other airports where turning pads are made of asphalt and they don’t take the beating that we give to them due to the weight of the aircraft but this one is made of concrete,” he said.
Mr Sirika said the government would soon build a cargo terminal to stimulate economic activity around the city.
The minister said that the Chinese terminal, which was constructed at the airport at around 60 per cent, would also be delivered as quickly as possible.