FG signs Port Harcourt airport concession as unions secure job assurances

The Federal Government has signed a concession agreement with PH Airport Limited to manage the Port Harcourt International Airport. Aviation unions have endorsed the deal after receiving assurances that no aviation worker will lose a job because of the concession.

The agreement covers the Jeremiah Obafemi Awolowo International Airport in Port Harcourt. It was signed at the office of the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, who led the government delegation. The concessionaire was represented by its Group Managing Director, Eyo Asuquo.

Aviation stakeholders at signing

The signing ceremony was attended by key aviation stakeholders. They include the Director-General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, NCAA, Capt. Chris Najomo; the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, FAAN, Olubunmi Kuku; ministry directors and aviation union leaders.

Unions back deal after job assurance

Speaking for the unions, National Union of Air Transport Employees, NUATE, President Ben Nnabue expressed support for the agreement. He explained that organised labour endorsed the arrangement after receiving assurances that no aviation worker would lose a job because of the concession. Nnabue said protecting workers' employment remained a major priority for the unions. He added that the assurances from the government and the concessionaire influenced their decision to support the deal.

Concessionaire promises upgrades, jobs

Asuquo highlighted Port Harcourt's strategic position in the aviation and economic activities of the Gulf of Guinea. He described the airport as an important gateway with significant potential to promote regional trade, investment and connectivity. The PH Airport Limited chief executive pledged to improve the facility through infrastructure investments, better operational standards and expanded economic activities. He also assured stakeholders that the concession would generate additional employment opportunities rather than result in job losses. According to him, the company's vision extends beyond managing the airport to driving broader economic development, attracting investments and creating more jobs through increased airport-related activities.

Keyamo presided over the formal execution of the concession agreement. The deal was subsequently endorsed by the concessionaire and relevant ministry officials. The signing marked the completion of the formal agreement process between the Federal Government and PH Airport Limited.