Move marks major shift in aviation sector as authorities seek improved efficiency and service delivery at Akanu Ibiam International Airport

The Federal Government has officially transferred management of Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, to a private operator, marking a significant development in the South-East’s aviation landscape. The handover took place on Thursday, 25 June 2026, as part of government’s broader strategy to boost operational standards and infrastructure at major airports nationwide.

According to officials, the decision to concession the Enugu airport is aimed at ensuring better maintenance, enhanced passenger experience and increased revenue generation for the federal purse. The new private operator, whose identity was not disclosed at the event, is expected to take over daily management, with responsibilities covering passenger services, facility upgrades and compliance with international safety standards.

The move comes amidst longstanding calls from industry stakeholders for reforms in Nigeria’s aviation sector. Many have argued that public ownership has led to inadequate funding and poor maintenance of airport facilities. By involving private partners in airport administration, government aims to mirror successes recorded in Lagos and Abuja, where similar concessions have led to improved services.

A senior official at the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), who spoke during the handover ceremony in Enugu, said: “This partnership is designed to bring world-class standards to Akanu Ibiam International Airport and ensure it meets the needs of travellers from the South-East and beyond.”

While some local transport unions expressed cautious optimism about the transition, they urged government and the new operator to prioritise job security for existing staff. Aviation experts say the success of this concession will depend on clear regulatory oversight and sustained investment in airport infrastructure.

With this development, government is expected to monitor performance metrics closely as part of efforts to improve Nigeria’s status as a regional aviation hub. Further announcements regarding timelines for planned upgrades and changes to passenger procedures are anticipated in coming weeks.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/business/business-news/890806-fg-hands-over-enugu-airport-to-private-operator.html

Former Emir of Kano calls for renewed dialogue as West African bloc faces strain from member states’ withdrawals

Former Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has called on the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to seek reconciliation with Niger Republic, Mali and Burkina Faso following recent tensions in the region. Sanusi made this appeal on Thursday, urging leaders to prioritise dialogue and regional unity amid the ongoing diplomatic rifts.

The former Central Bank Governor emphasised the need for ECOWAS to engage constructively with the three Sahel countries after their decision to withdraw from the bloc earlier this year. Sanusi stated that mending relations was critical for regional stability, particularly given the security and economic challenges confronting West Africa.

Relations between Nigeria and its neighbours have been under strain since military-led governments in Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso announced their exit from ECOWAS. The three countries cited concerns over sanctions imposed by the bloc and accused ECOWAS of interfering in their domestic affairs. This development has raised concerns among stakeholders about the future of regional cooperation, especially regarding trade and joint security initiatives.

Sanusi urged ECOWAS leadership to adopt a diplomatic approach by opening channels of communication with Niamey, Bamako and Ouagadougou. He stressed that rebuilding trust was essential to achieving shared development goals. “Dialogue remains the best option for resolving disputes within our region,” Sanusi said during his remarks.

The withdrawal of these countries from ECOWAS has prompted fears over increased insecurity along Nigeria’s northern borders and disruptions in cross-border commerce. Analysts say that a fractured bloc could undermine collective efforts against terrorism and hamper economic integration plans. Observers are watching closely to see how ECOWAS will respond in the coming weeks as mediation efforts continue.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/890794-reconcile-with-niger-mali-burkina-faso-sanusi-tells-ecowas.html

Ongoing violence and questionable funding sources threaten investor confidence as Ethiopia seeks economic recovery

Ethiopia’s foreign investment landscape is facing renewed challenges as persistent conflict and the influx of so-called ‘corrosive capital’ unsettle economic prospects across the Horn of Africa nation. Recent developments have raised concerns among both international investors and local stakeholders, with many warning that the current climate could undermine Ethiopia’s post-pandemic recovery ambitions.

The turmoil, which has affected key regions, is causing disruptions to major projects and prompting several investors to reconsider their commitments. Industry observers note that the increased presence of capital from opaque sources—often described as corrosive due to a lack of transparency and potential political strings attached—has further complicated Ethiopia’s efforts to attract sustainable investments.

Ethiopia, once celebrated as one of Africa’s fastest-growing economies, now faces mounting headwinds. The ongoing instability has led to project delays and heightened operational risks for companies in sectors ranging from manufacturing to infrastructure. Economic analysts say this shift is particularly significant given the country’s recent push to diversify its economy away from agriculture and create jobs for its large youth population.

Government officials have acknowledged these concerns, stating their commitment to restoring investor confidence. However, critics argue that without concrete security improvements and stricter oversight on foreign funding sources, Ethiopia may struggle to regain its appeal. Experts also caution that reliance on unregulated capital could expose the country to new vulnerabilities.

Looking ahead, stakeholders are calling for coordinated action by authorities and partners to address both the security challenges and the need for transparent investment frameworks. The outcome of these efforts will be crucial not only for Ethiopia’s economic stability but also for broader regional development.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/890728-capital-under-fire-how-conflict-corrosive-capital-are-reshaping-ethiopias-foreign-investment-landscape.html