Freetown, Sierra Leone – The National Revenue Authority (NRA) has announced a temporary three-day closure of the Cargo Terminal at Freetown International Airport (also known as Lungi International Airport) from Thursday, 17 July to Saturday, 19 July 2026.
The shutdown is part of broader security and logistical preparations for the high-profile ECOWAS Mid-Year Summit 2026, which Sierra Leone is hosting.
During this period, all cargo handling services, including imports, exports, and related terminal operations, will be fully suspended, and the facility will be inaccessible to the public, clearing agents, and other stakeholders. Normal operations are scheduled to resume on Monday, 20 July 2026.
Context of the ECOWAS Summit
Sierra Leone, under President Julius Maada Bio (current ECOWAS Chairperson), is hosting the summit from 12 to 19 July 2026 across venues in Freetown and Lungi. The event includes preparatory meetings (such as the Administration and Finance Committee from 12–14 July at Bintumani New Hall) and culminates in the 69th Ordinary Session of the Authority of Heads of State and Government on 19 July.
The gathering is expected to draw leaders and senior officials from across the 15-member ECOWAS bloc, along with hundreds of delegates, estimates suggest around 500 participants, including up to 10 heads of state. Key agenda items are likely to include regional security, the operationalization of the ECOWAS Standby Force to combat terrorism in the Sahel and West Africa, economic integration, and the appointment of a new ECOWAS Commission leadership.
This marks a significant diplomatic moment for Sierra Leone, its first time hosting such a major ECOWAS summit in decades, highlighting President Bio’s regional influence.
Broader Preparations and Airport Measures
The cargo terminal closure is one of several measures to ensure smooth security arrangements for the influx of VIPs and delegations. Other recent steps include the temporary suspension of the US$25 airport security fee (effective from 6 July) while the contract framework is reviewed.
The NRA urged importers, exporters, clearing agents, freight forwarders, and businesses to adjust their schedules in advance to minimize disruptions to supply chains. The authority apologized for any inconvenience and expressed gratitude for public cooperation during this national and regional event.
Freetown International Airport, which underwent a major $270 million expansion completed in recent years (including a new passenger terminal opened in 2023), is playing a central role in facilitating the summit.
Stakeholders are advised to monitor official updates from the NRA, Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), and other government agencies for any last-minute changes.
This temporary measure underscores Sierra Leone’s commitment to delivering a secure and successful summit that strengthens West African unity.
