The South East Amalgamated Markets Traders Association (SEAMATA) has appealed to the Federal Government to review period of closure of Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, to 60 days.

President-General of SEAMATA, Chief Gozie Akudolu, who made the appeal in a statement in Enugu yesterday, however lamented the far-reaching effect the long closure of the airport would have on businesses and commercial activities in the region, as the airport remains first airport of choice for traders in the region.

He said that trading in the South-East would remain the worst “more so as we approach the end of the year with its attendant rise in tempo of business activities.’’

Akudolu, who said that it was public knowledge that the airport remains the gateway of their members to their business destinations, especially outside the country, noted the proximity of the airport to South-East business locations.

He said that the reason for the closure of the airport to fix the failed portions of the airport runway that will guarantee the safety of the passengers and the aircraft could be effectively and efficiently achieved within less than 60 days.”