The Federal Government has signed a 30-year concession agreement transferring the management of Port Harcourt International Airport to a private operator in a move aimed at improving airport operations and attracting private investment into Nigeria’s aviation sector.
The agreement was signed under the supervision of the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.
Under the arrangement, the private operator is expected to take responsibility for managing and upgrading the airport, including improving its facilities, passenger experience and overall operational efficiency.
The government explained that the decision to involve private investors was driven by the need to address infrastructure challenges and reduce the financial burden of managing major airports solely with public funds.
The concessionaire is expected to invest in modernising the airport and developing it into an aviation hub serving the Gulf of Guinea region.
The agreement has also received support from aviation labour unions following assurances that existing airport workers would retain their jobs under the new management arrangement.
Port Harcourt International Airport is an important gateway for Rivers State and Nigeria’s oil and gas industry. Its operations are particularly significant because of the number of businesses, oil companies and international travellers that depend on the facility.
The government expects the partnership to improve service delivery, encourage investment and strengthen Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure.
However, the success of the arrangement will depend on the operator’s ability to deliver the promised improvements, maintain service standards and ensure that the airport meets international aviation requirements.
The development forms part of the Federal Government’s wider effort to encourage private sector participation in the management of public infrastructure.
