Umueri Airport: Anambra’s Aviation Hub Ready to Soar
Chinua Achebe International Airport (Umueri) is seizing a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s aviation landscape. With Enugu Airport’s temporary closure for runway upgrades, Umueri is stepping up to accommodate diverted traffic, showcasing its state-of-the-art facilities and strategic advantages. This shift presents a significant opportunity for the airport to solidify its position as a key player in Southeast Nigeria’s air connectivity.
Managing Director/CEO Mr. Martins Nwafor confidently assures travelers and airlines that Umueri is fully prepared for the influx. The airport has already integrated United Nigeria Airlines’ early morning flights and anticipates increased activity from Air Peace, its inaugural airline partner. Negotiations are also underway with other carriers, including Ibom Air, ValuJet, Rano Air, and Overland, sweetened by incentives like complimentary office space and joint marketing initiatives.
Umueri’s impressive infrastructure is its strongest selling point. The 3.7 km runway, among Nigeria’s longest, can handle large aircraft like the Boeing 747-800 series, with a tarmac spacious enough for nine wide-body jets. Advanced navigation aids, including a top-tier DVOR and ILS, ensure seamless all-weather operations. Passenger comfort is paramount, with enhanced cooling systems, ample terminal amenities for 1,000 passengers daily, and complimentary shuttles easing ground transportation.
Security is a top priority. Despite regional concerns, Umueri boasts a spotless security record over three years, thanks to a robust force of police, civil defense officers, local security, and comprehensive perimeter fencing. Aviation security and firefighting services are managed through a partnership with the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN). On-site aviation fuel availability further streamlines operations, eliminating past logistical hurdles.
Since opening in December 2021, Umueri has handled over 450,000 passengers and 7,000 flights, primarily served by Air Peace and United Nigeria Airlines, with notable private jet activity. The airport’s financial self-sufficiency, covering staff costs and operational expenses through internal revenue, underscores its sustainable business model. Government support for infrastructure development, including firefighting equipment, medical facilities, and maintenance tools, further strengthens its operational capacity.
Umueri’s strategic location, nestled between Enugu, Asaba, Owerri, and Port Harcourt, positions it as a convenient hub for the Southeast. This central positioning enhances its appeal for travelers and reinforces its potential as a regional aviation powerhouse. The airport is also rediscovering its initial focus as a cargo hub, with plans for agro-cargo processing and quality assurance infrastructure in collaboration with Afreximbank, promising to stimulate regional economic growth.
Mr. Nwafor, a seasoned aviation expert and former Nigerian representative at the ICAO Council, envisions Umueri as more than just an airport—a catalyst for development, investment, and enhanced connectivity. He believes Anambra State has the vision and resources to ensure the airport’s sustainable management without transferring control to FAAN.
With Enugu’s temporary closure focusing attention on Umueri, the airport has a prime opportunity to prove its capabilities and potentially become the preferred gateway to Southeast Nigeria. This period of increased traffic will not only serve as a real-world test of its infrastructure and operational efficiency but also showcase its potential to reshape the region’s aviation dynamics.
