FAAN shuts Gombe, Kebbi airports

With effect from May 1, 2019, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has closed down the Gombe and Kebbi airports as a result of over N700 million debt.

Recall that FAAN had earlier issued a warning that it would shut down its services in nine airports where operators have not paid for services rendered unless the debts are paid on or before April 30th, 2019.

Consequently, FAAN on Wednesday in a Notice to Air Men (NOTAM) sent to the airports announced the withdrawal of men of the safety and fire rescue and aviation security personnel attached to the two airports.

READ ALSO: FAAN threatens to cripple Uyo, Asaba, Gombe, Lagos airports over pay debts

“The authority shall be constrained to commence the implementation of sanctions at the expiration of this notice if the organisations fail or refuse to pay up as advised,” FAAN had said.

“In view of the above, the authority hereby notifies private airport operators that the services of our Aviation Security and Aerodrome Rescue and Fire Fighting personnel will no longer be available for the operations of their airports with effect from May 1.

“This action has become imperative as the management of Gombe Airport is indebted to the authority to the tune of N607. 9m, while Kebbi and Bebi airports are indebted to the tune of N124.5m million and N76.8m respectively.”

FAAN services include security, aerodrome rescue and fire-fighting personnel. In the absence of these, there will be no flights, according to the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).

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