The federal government has signed a concession agreement for the Jeremiah Obafemi Awolowo International Airport, Port Harcourt, with PH Airport Limited, assuring aviation workers that the arrangement will not lead to job losses.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, signed the agreement on behalf of the federal government, while the concessionaire was represented by its group managing director, Eyo Asuquo.
The signing followed a meeting between the minister and leaders of aviation labour unions, during which concerns over the implications of the concession for workers were discussed.
Speaking on behalf of the unions, Comrade Ben Nnabue said organised labour had endorsed the agreement after receiving assurances that no aviation worker would lose his or her job as a result of the concession.
He said the protection of workers’ jobs remained a major consideration for the unions, adding that their approval was based on the assurances and commitments obtained from the federal government.
The unions’ endorsement marks a significant step in the concession process, as the government seeks to attract private-sector investment into airport infrastructure while addressing concerns over workers’ welfare.
Speaking at the event, Asuquo described Port Harcourt’s strategic position in the Gulf of Guinea as a major advantage for the airport, noting its potential to serve as a gateway for regional commerce, investment and connectivity.
He said PH Airport Limited was committed to transforming the facility through infrastructure investment, improved operational standards and expanded economic activities.
According to him, the company’s vision goes beyond taking over the airport’s management, as it plans to unlock its economic potential, create more employment opportunities and strengthen its position as a major aviation and commercial hub.
Asuquo assured that the concession would generate additional jobs rather than result in retrenchment, explaining that increased investment and airport-related activities would create opportunities for employment growth.
The formal signing ceremony was attended by key aviation stakeholders, including the Director-General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Chris Najomo; the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku; ministry directors and leaders of aviation labour unions.
The Port Harcourt airport concession is part of the federal government’s broader efforts to attract private-sector expertise, investment and operational capacity into the management and development of the country’s airport infrastructure.
Under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development has pursued reforms aimed at modernising airports, improving operational efficiency, strengthening institutional capacity and positioning the aviation sector as a driver of economic growth.
The government expects the concession to usher in a new phase of airport development, with improved passenger experience, better airport services, increased investment and greater economic activities.
With the agreement signed and labour unions endorsing the arrangement following assurances on job security, the government and the concessionaire are expected to focus on implementing the investment and operational plans for the airport.