Sam Mbakwe International Airport in Owerri, Imo State, will launch its inaugural international flight on May 9, nearly four decades after its establishment in 1983, following extensive facility upgrades spearheaded by Governor Hope Uzodimma. The revamped airport, now equipped with night landing capabilities and an expanded runway, will first service 315 Hajj pilgrims from Imo, Abia, and Bayelsa states aboard an Air Peace flight to Saudi Arabia, attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima and other dignitaries.
Imo State Commissioner for Information Declan Emelumba confirmed the milestone, noting that Christian pilgrims would also depart directly from the airport to the Holy Land in June 2025. He emphasized the strategic economic implications, stating the upgrade would ease access for global investors and Imo’s diaspora community, who previously relied on transit through Lagos or Port Harcourt.
“This development aligns with Governor Uzodimma’s vision to position Imo as a hub for commerce and connectivity,” Emelumba said, highlighting expectations of increased business activity and reduced travel burdens for residents.
