…‘The Extra Mile’ edition examines planned runway works, nationwide infrastructure upgrades and improved passenger experience
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has placed plans for the rehabilitation of the runway at Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, Owerri, at the centre of Episode 20 of FAAN IN FOCUS, as the Authority intensifies efforts to improve airport safety, operational reliability and infrastructure capacity across the country.
Titled “The Extra Mile” and produced by HS Studios, the latest edition features the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, and FAAN’s Director of Engineering Services, Engineer Abiola Muniru, who provide insights into the proposed Owerri intervention and ongoing efforts to rehabilitate airport infrastructure beyond Lagos.
The planned rehabilitation works at Owerri include pavement repairs, crack treatment, resurfacing and a proposed extension to improve runway capacity and support future operational demands. The intervention is expected to require a temporary runway closure of approximately 25 days from October 20, subject to final operational confirmation.
In the programme, Keyamo explains the need for the intervention and the Federal Government’s commitment to completing critical rehabilitation works ahead of the Christmas travel season, a period traditionally associated with increased passenger traffic across the South-East.
The episode examines how the proposed works are expected to address deteriorating sections of the runway, enhance the safety of aircraft operations and prepare the airport for future traffic demands.
Providing the technical perspective, Muniru discusses the engineering requirements of the Owerri project alongside rehabilitation efforts at other airports outside Lagos, highlighting FAAN’s broader drive to improve aviation infrastructure and operational standards nationwide.
An accompanying explainer examines why major runway rehabilitation projects may require complete temporary closures. It outlines how damaged pavement removal, deep crack treatment, resurfacing and the use of heavy construction equipment require a controlled work environment, as well as sufficient time for newly laid materials to meet prescribed engineering standards.
Passengers scheduled to travel through Owerri during the proposed rehabilitation period are advised to maintain contact with their airlines for confirmed flight schedules, updates and alternative travel arrangements.
Beyond infrastructure, Episode 20 reinforces the importance of airport security, reminding travellers that screening procedures apply to every passenger, irrespective of position or status. The programme encourages cooperation with authorised security personnel as part of efforts to protect passengers, airport workers and aircraft operations.
The edition also highlights FAAN’s observance of the 2026 International Customer Service Week under the theme, “The Extra Mile,” showcasing initiatives designed to strengthen service delivery, improve passenger engagement and promote a customer-focused airport environment.
The HS Studios production team documented several activities during the three-day programme, including community outreach at MMIA International School, passenger engagement at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, Lucky Dip activities, and the closing stakeholder engagement and awards ceremony.
FAAN’s Managing Director and Chief Executive, Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, highlights the importance of passenger comfort and continuous improvements to the airport experience. Other contributions from the Authority’s leadership underscore teamwork, responsive service delivery and effective complaint resolution as essential elements of airport management.
The programme also recognises staff, stakeholders and partners for outstanding service, reinforcing the need to make customer care an integral part of everyday airport operations.
Presented by Chuma Nnoli, standing in for Tolulope Adeleru-Balogun, “The Extra Mile” brings together the themes of infrastructure rehabilitation, operational safety and customer service, underscoring FAAN’s broader responsibility to support safer, more reliable and more comfortable air travel across Nigeria.
Through FAAN IN FOCUS, the Authority continues to communicate developments in airport infrastructure, operational priorities and service delivery while engaging passengers and other aviation stakeholders on issues affecting their travel experience.
