Who We Are
A World-Class Aviation Hub in the Heart of Southeast Nigeria
Chinua Achebe International Cargo Airport (CAICA), located in Umueri, Anambra State, is the newest and most modern airport in Nigeria. Inaugurated to serve Anambra State's growing economic and aviation needs, the airport is operated by the Chinua Achebe International Cargo Airport Authority (CAICAA) under the supervision of the Anambra State Government.
Built in strict adherence to Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig. CARs) and International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards, CAICA is equipped for safe, efficient, and sustainable air transportation for passengers, cargo, and logistics operators.
The airport sits on a 3,700-metre runway capable of accommodating wide-body aircraft including Boeing 747 freighters, and has been steadily growing to serve more airlines, more routes, and more communities across Nigeria and beyond.
The expansive departure hall at CAICA
Aircraft on the apron at CAICA
Strategic Location
Connecting the Hubs of the South East
In Nigeria and across Africa, the people of Anambra who are business men and traders are the most frequent travelers by air and other modes of transportation.
Chinua Achebe International Cargo Airport Umueri with ICAO code name “DNAN” is about 16km from Onitsha, 32km from Nnewi, 31km from Awka and 53km to Ekwulobia. The location is well situated to take advantage of the air traveling needs of the people of south eastern Nigeria especially the business hubs of Onitsha, Nnewi, Awka and Ekwulobia.
The airport remains open to partnerships and investments with airlines and other concessionaires, offering access to a vast and loyal customer base. Scheduled and unscheduled commercial and private operations have since commenced operation at the airport.
Our Journey
A Brief History of Chinua Achebe International Cargo Airport, Umueri
The vision to develop an airport in Anambra State started many years ago but materialized when the Anambra State, in conjunction with Orient Petroleum Resources Plc obtained approval from the Federal Ministry of Aviation to develop a cargo airport where we are today in Umueri.
The actual construction of Chinua Achebe International Cargo Airport Umueri by the state government commenced in 2019, and by 30th April 2021, the first set of aeroplanes operated by Air Peace and a Private Jet operator landed at the airport as a test flight.
On 30th October 2021, the then Executive Governor of Anambra State, Chief Willie Obiano CON commissioned the airport, having been approved by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority. Commercial flight operation started on the 7th of December 2021.
On the 1st October 2023, during his independence speech, the airport previously named Anambra International Cargo Airport Umueri was renamed by the Executive Governor of Anambra State Professor Charles Chukwuma Soludo CFR in order to immortalize Professor Chinua Achebe whom he described as an all-time greatest literary gift to the world. It is now known as CHINUA ACHEBE INTERNATIONAL CARGO AIRPORT UMUERI.
The modern terminal building at Umueri
Proven Track Record
Progressive Years of Remarkable Growth
Within its first two years of operation, CAICA demonstrated extraordinary performance, cementing its place as a vital aviation hub for Southeast Nigeria.
6000+ Flights
Over 6,000 total flight movements recorded in the first two years of operation, connecting Anambra to Lagos, Abuja, and beyond.
250,000 Passengers
A quarter of a million passenger movements processed safely and efficiently, reflecting strong public confidence in CAICA.
500+ Jobs Created
More than 500 direct jobs generated, with thousands more indirect employment opportunities supported in surrounding communities.
Check-in and booking counters at CAICA
Achievements & Growth
From Restricted Operations to Full Capability
Operational Milestones
CAICA has successfully overcome its initial operational limitations through strategic investment and effective management. The airport now operates with :
- ARFFS Category 6: Supporting Boeing 737-800 aircraft;
- Instrument Landing System (ILS): fully calibrated;
- Airfield Lighting System: for all-weather operations, providing on-site Jet A-1 aviation fuel,
and maintains a robust security network comprising the Police, Civil Defence, DSS, and CID personnel to ensure the safety of passengers, staff, and aircraft.
Economic Impact
Driving Growth for Anambra and Southeast Nigeria
CAICA has rapidly evolved into a powerful economic catalyst for Anambra State. Its presence has triggered significant activity across tourism, trade, logistics, and employment sectors:
- Direct Employment: Over 500 direct jobs across operations, security, ground handling, retail, and administration.
- Cargo & Trade: As a dedicated cargo airport, CAICA supports agro-allied businesses by facilitating the swift export of perishable goods, reducing post-harvest losses across the region.
- Trade Partnerships: Active collaborations with the Shippers' Council of Nigeria and trade associations to grow export corridors.
- Afrexim Bank Partnership: Discussions underway to partner with Afrexim Bank and establish an Anambra State Export Emporium at the airport.
- Tourism & Hospitality: Increased air connectivity has boosted hotel occupancy, tour bookings, and cultural tourism to Onitsha, Awka, Nnewi, and environs.
Cargo operations at CAICA
Message from the Managing Director
Welcome to Chinua Achebe International Cargo Airport Umueri (CAICA), a world-class aviation hub dedicated to efficiency, innovation, and excellence in air transportation and logistics.
Our mission is to enhance global and regional accessibility while upholding the highest standards of safety, customer service, and operational efficiency — ensuring a smooth, hassle-free experience for all airport users.
Whether you are a traveller, a logistics partner, or a business, CAICA is designed to support your journey. Thank you for choosing CAICA — where possibilities take flight.
Our Infrastructure
Built to International Standards
Every facility at CAICA is designed and certified to meet ICAO and NCAA requirements, ensuring world-class safety, efficiency, and passenger comfort.
3,700m Runway
One of Nigeria's longest runways, capable of handling Boeing 747 freighters, wide-body passenger jets, and charter aircraft.
Modern Terminal
A spacious, naturally lit terminal building housing check-in counters, immigration, security screening, arrivals, and departure lounges.
VIP & Executive Lounges
Premium lounge facilities including the Stanel Lounge and GCUPS Lounge for discerning travellers.
ARFFS Category 6
Three Ziegler Z6 Rapid Intervention Vehicles on 24/7 standby, certified to Category 6 fire and emergency response.
Cargo & Logistics Hub
Purpose-built cargo handling infrastructure supporting agro-allied exports, postal services, and international freight.
ILS & Navigation Aids
Fully calibrated Instrument Landing System, VOR/DME, and airfield lighting for safe all-weather operations.
Looking Forward
Vision 2030 — Africa's First Green Airport
CAICA's long-term strategic plan is built on three pillars: Sustainability, Connectivity, and Trade.
The airport aims to pioneer green aviation infrastructure in Africa - integrating solar energy, rainwater harvesting, waste management systems, and carbon-offset programmes into its daily operations.
On the connectivity front, the airport is actively in discussions to attract more domestic and international airlines, with a specific focus on cargo carriers serving Asian, European, and Middle Eastern markets. This aligns with Anambra State's position as Nigeria's leading commercial and manufacturing hub.
In partnership with the Anambra State Export Emporium and Afrexim Bank, CAICA will become the logistical backbone of Southeast Nigeria's export economy - moving everything from textiles and manufactured goods to agricultural produce and artisan crafts to the world.
Aircraft on the CAICA tarmac
Leadership & Governance
Guided by Visionary Leadership
CAICA operates under a dedicated management team and is supervised by the Anambra State Ministry of Transport, guided by the Commissioner for Transport.
Anambra State Government
The airport is owned and supported by the Anambra State Government under the leadership of Governor Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, whose economic vision drives CAICA's growth.
Ministry of Transport
Hon. Edward Obiefuna Ibuzo, Commissioner for Transport, provides ministerial oversight and policy direction for CAICA and all transport infrastructure in Anambra State.
Executive Management
Nwafor Martins Emeka, as Managing Director, leads a team of aviation professionals committed to operational excellence and continuous improvement.