Abia State Government to Flag Off Airport Construction on December 17
The Abia State Government has announced that construction work on the much-anticipated Abia Airport will officially commence on Tuesday, 17 December 2024, at the approved site in Nsulu, Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area.
The project will be inaugurated by the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.
This landmark development was disclosed on Monday by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, through a statement on his official Facebook account.
The post read:
“Project alert: Flag-off and ground-breaking of Abia Airport on Tuesday, 17th December by the Honourable Minister of Aviation.”
The announcement follows extensive consultations between the Abia State Government and representatives of the host communities in Nsulu.
Initial opposition from some community members regarding the airport’s proposed location prompted the government to engage traditional rulers and key stakeholders in dialogue to address concerns and secure broad-based support.
The Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, highlighted the developmental vision behind the project.
He underscored the airport’s potential to stimulate the local economy, create employment opportunities, and position Abia State as a key hub for regional connectivity.
Ajagba assured residents that the government is committed to resolving all concerns amicably.
He emphasised that landowners would receive fair compensation for their properties, and efforts would be made to preserve livelihoods during the clearing of trees and structures at the project site.
“This project is not just about infrastructure; it is about empowering our people, creating jobs, and ensuring the benefits extend to every corner of Nsulu and beyond,” Ajagba stated.
The Abia State Government had earlier announced a partnership with the Federal Government in July 2024 to construct the airport.
Initially conceived as an airstrip by the Federal Government, the project has since evolved into a full-fledged airport, thanks to the state’s commitment to enhancing regional economic growth.
Further boosting confidence in the project, Access Bank has expressed interest in partnering with the government on the initiative, reflecting significant private sector support.
In a related development, a Federal Government delegation from the Ministry of Aviation, accompanied by officials from key agencies, conducted an inspection of the proposed site.
This collaborative effort, combining state, federal, and private sector support, underscores the transformative potential of the Abia Airport project, which is set to position Abia State as a strategic player in Nigeria’s aviation landscape.
Source: Nairametrics
