Nigeria’s Osubi Airport Sees Major Boost in Passenger Numbers and Revenue
The Osubi Airport, located in Warri, Delta State, has recorded a significant increase in passenger traffic and revenue between January and June 2024. According to the airport’s management, a total of 124,000 passengers were processed during the period, with 2,051 aircraft movements recorded.
The airport’s manager, Mr. Winston Egwuatu, disclosed this at the recent Aviation Business Summit and Expo 2024 in Lagos. Egwuatu attributed the growth to the improved management of the airport since it was taken over by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) in March 2021.
The airport’s revenue generation between January and June 2024 stood at N831,374,521.74, comprising aeronautic and non-aeronautic sources.
The revenue collection performance for the period was N731,397,265.05, while total expenditure was N676,643,455.27. He emphasized that the Osubi Airport, a Public Private Partnership Venture (PPP), has set a model for the nation’s aviation industry.
The airport, which was not originally built for commercial operations, now carries out commercial activities, providing a unique opportunity for businesses to thrive. According to the AM, the airport management has taken several steps to improve the airport’s infrastructure and services.
These include the provision of a 250kva static UPS inverter, which provides regular power supply when primary and secondary power sources are unavailable. The airport also has a fuel dump for reserve, in case of scarcity in the market, and a solar-powered street light for night business.
To boost investor confidence, the airport management has constructed a police station and provided additional perimeter fencing to guarantee a secure business environment.
Egwuatu revealed that a large expanse of land, approximately 10,764,900 square meters, is available for the establishment of various businesses, with operating space for more airlines. Currently, Airpeace and Arik Air operate daily flights to Lagos and Abuja, while Green Africa, Overland, and United Nigeria Airlines have indicated plans to resume operations soon.
The airport manager also announced that the ongoing extension of Terminal One will provide space for a VIP lounge, retail shop, and restaurant. The planned upgrade by the federal government will involve the extension of the runway, apron expansion, construction of a new terminal building, fire station, and general upgrade of the airport facilities.
He attributed the cordial relationship between the airport management and the host community to the development and progress in the airport community, making Osubi one of the best-maintained airports in Nigeria.
The airport manager’s efforts have been recognized, as he won the 2023 Nigeria Aviation Award for Best Airport Manager in Nigeria.
