The Federal Government has approved the upgrade of an airstrip originally planned for Abia State to an international cargo airport, as announced by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo.
Keyamo made this announcement during the groundbreaking ceremony for the project in Ubahu Nsulu, Isiala Ngwa North Local Government, about 10 km from Umuahia, the state capital. He stated that the upgrade, a presidential initiative, was swiftly approved by President Bola Tinubu to enhance the industrialisation of Abia and the broader South-east region.
Keyamo explained that President Tinubu’s vision was to ensure that no part of the country, especially the South-east, was left out of aviation development. Abia, unlike other states in the region, had lacked an airport, with previous efforts to establish one failing despite land acquisition and preparation.
“The upgrade of the airport to an international cargo airport came about after Governor Alex Otti offered to collaborate with the Federal Government,” Keyamo added. He stressed the importance of the airport, pointing out Abia’s significant role in Nigeria’s industrial ecosystem, with Aba serving as a commercial and industrial hub known for producing “Made in Nigeria” goods.
The airport, primarily designed for cargo operations, aims to facilitate the direct export of goods, boosting logistics and economic activity. Keyamo emphasized that such an airport would not only drive industrialisation but also support trade in the South-east.
Governor Otti, who views the airport as a signature project, noted that the project would positively impact all aspects of the state’s economy. He stated that it would transform Abia’s transport system, improve air connectivity, and support tourism and hospitality businesses. This, in turn, would create job opportunities for both Abians and residents.
“In the new Abia, an airport is not just an important project for the long-term prosperity of the state, it is an integral component of our vision to open the state to the world,” Otti remarked. He added that building the airport aligned with his commitment to ensuring that “Abia will never let any promising opportunities slip by,” regardless of the scope of collaboration.
The groundbreaking event drew political and business leaders from the state, all expressing enthusiasm for the project. Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Chief Benjamin Kalu, expressed optimism about the project’s timely completion, noting, “Abia is blessed with a governor that understands the importance of synergistic partnership.”
He assured that the National Assembly would provide the necessary legislative support to ensure the project’s success. “We are promising Abians that when the budget comes, we will look out for the budget that is going to benefit Abia and we will approve it,” Kalu said.
The Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Mrs. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, highlighted that the project symbolised President Tinubu’s commitment to delivering democratic benefits to the people. She commended Tinubu for selecting Abia for an international airport, adding that the people of Abia would experience significant economic advantages.
Finally, the Commissioner for Lands and Housing, Mr. Chaka Chukwumerije, revealed that 1,325.86 hectares of land had been acquired from nine communities for the project, assuring that full compensation would be provided to all landowners.
