Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, Owerri, is set to record a historic milestone as it prepares to host its first-ever international flight on Thursday, May 9, 2025—more than three decades after it was established. This development follows a comprehensive upgrade of the airport’s infrastructure under the administration of Governor Hope Uzodimma.
The announcement was made by Hon. Declan Emelumba, the State Commissioner for Information, Public Orientation and Strategy, who described the occasion as a “game-changer for Imo State’s economy.” According to him, the international flight launch will be witnessed by top political leaders, religious figures, captains of industry, and members of the diplomatic community.
As part of the historic ceremony, pilgrims heading to Hajj 2025 from Imo will depart directly from the newly upgraded airport—a first in the state’s aviation history. Emelumba also confirmed that Christian pilgrims will fly directly to Israel and other holy destinations from Owerri starting next month.
The commissioner explained that the transformation of the airport’s runway, installation of night-landing equipment, and upgrade of navigational aids were all executed to international standards. These changes, he said, were made to reposition the airport as a key hub for regional and global air connectivity.
This move is expected to ease the travel burden for international passengers from the South-East, who previously relied on airports in Port Harcourt, Lagos, or Abuja. For the Imo diaspora community, this marks a welcome end to long, indirect journeys and signals a more direct connection to home.
Hon. Emelumba emphasized that the governor’s vision was not just about air travel but economic expansion. “With the airport now open to the world, global investors can fly directly into Owerri, reducing delays and strengthening investor confidence,” he said.
The long-awaited breakthrough is also poised to boost tourism, diaspora engagement, and commercial opportunities in Imo State. As the countdown to May 9 begins, expectations are high, and the state gears up to finally take its place on the global aviation map.
