The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced the official closure of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
The closure of the airport which is expected to take effect as from 12 midnight on Wednesday March 8th, 2017 will last for six months.
The Information Minister, Lai Mohammed, the Transport Minister, Rotimi Amaechi along with the Aviation Minister, Hadi Sirika were present at the press conference organised in Abuja today to declare the airport closed.
The six weeks closure will afford the Federal Government enough time to carry out repair works.
Following the announcement, reports indicate that Only one international airline has agreed with the Federal Government to use the Kaduna airport as an alternative airport pending the completion of the repair work.
The Managing Director of FAAN, Saleh Dunoma while announcing the alternative airport said the Kaduna airport is ready for international flights.
“All the things we need for international operations are on ground. What is important actually is the safety equipment for the landing of the aircraft. “We have seen the runway is good, the Instrument Landing System (ILS) has been installed and the terminal building is ready.
“The contractor has been directed by the Acting President to redouble his effort so that the remaining items of work that are remaining should be completed before the commencement of the international operations in Kaduna. I think this is one of the luckiest airports; they have five generators as standby power supply. So we have more than enough.”