Airport
Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport (QOW)
Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport is the main gateway to Owerri and Imo State, also serving nearby towns such as Onitsha, Nnewi and Umuahia. Compare transfer options to Owerri city centre and surrounding areas, and plan your onward journey with ease.
Passengers
Luggage
About Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport
Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport serves Owerri, the capital of Imo State, and is an important gateway for southeastern Nigeria. It connects the region with key domestic cities such as Lagos, Abuja and Kano, while its cargo terminal supports regional trade and air freight operations.
The airport is named after Chief Sam Mbakwe, who was governor of Imo State from 1979 to 1983, and construction was carried out by the Imo State Government. It was commissioned and began operations on 15 July 1994, and has since been upgraded with improvements to its runway, communication systems and cargo facilities.
Located in the Ngor Okpala area, approximately 22 km from central Owerri, the airport has a single passenger terminal, a general aviation terminal and a cargo terminal. Its asphalt runway supports scheduled passenger flights, and the facility has night landing capability.
Travellers can reach Owerri and surrounding towns by taxi, bus, private transfer or rental car. With dining, shopping, a lounge and other passenger services available, the airport offers a practical connection point for both leisure and business travel in the region.
Terminal Overview
Terminals
The airport operates through a single passenger terminal that mainly handles domestic flights, together with a separate cargo terminal and warehouse facilities. General aviation movements are supported by the airport's General Aviation Terminal.
Ground Transportation Services to and from Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport
Transfers
Book private transfers from Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport to hotels, business locations and other destinations across Owerri and Imo State.
Hourly Chauffeur
Arrange a professional chauffeur by the hour for flexible travel from the airport, business meetings, events or journeys around Owerri and nearby towns.
Car Rental
Rent a car from Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport for independent travel around Owerri and onward journeys to nearby destinations.
Bus & Group Transfers
Organize minibuses or charter buses for groups travelling between the airport, hotels, event venues and other locations in and around Owerri.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Destinations
View all
Zamfara
Zamfara, in northwestern Nigeria, is a land of historic emirates, vibrant Hausa culture and bustling markets set against savannah and rolling hills.
Yobe
Yobe, in northeastern Nigeria, is a place of Sahelian landscapes, historic settlements and a cultural heritage shaped by trade and community life.
Jalingo
Jalingo, the capital of Taraba State, is a lively agricultural and commercial hub in north-eastern Nigeria. Its diverse communities and position near the Mambilla Plateau and Gashaka Gumti National Park make it a practical base for exploring the region.
Sokoto
Sokoto, a historic city in northwestern Nigeria and seat of the Sokoto Sultanate, is known for its Islamic scholarly heritage, traditional architecture and lively markets.