From TCNEWS
Nsulu, Isiala Ngwa North LGA, Abia State— Minister of Aviation and Aerospace, Festus Keyamo, has officially inaugurated the construction of the Abia International Airport at Nsulu, signaling President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to connecting Abia State to global networks.
During the ceremony, Keyamo emphasized that Abia is pivotal to the industrialization of Southeast Nigeria.
He credited Governor Alex Otti for his foresight in transforming the project from a mere airstrip into an international airport and applauded his dedication to securing necessary counterpart funding.
Keyamo assured residents of surrounding communities that they would receive priority for initial job placements at the airport.
In attendance, Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for this significant development and highlighted the project’s potential benefits for Abia.
She also noted that a special initiative aimed at empowering Nigerian youth is slated for launch in January 2025.
Deputy Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, reinforced the President’s commitment to the development of the Southeast, stating that Tinubu is the first president to endorse the establishment of the South East Development Commission.
Kalu assured attendees that the National Assembly would ensure adequate funding for the airport, underscoring its economic significance.
Governor Alex Otti praised President Tinubu for his interest in the Southeast’s development, explaining that the airport aligns with his administration’s goal of fostering growth beyond the urban centers of Aba and Umuahia.
He projected that the completed project would bring significant economic opportunities to Abia State.
Otti also reassured landowners in the host communities about compensation for land use and pledged to revive the Nsulu Games Village.
Local representatives, including Chief Ginger Onwusibe, member representing Isiala North and South Federal Constituency and Chief Ncheta Omerekpe, urged the Nsulu community to collaborate with the state government to facilitate a smooth and timely construction process, emphasizing that Otti’s administration is committed to the welfare of Isiala Ngwa North LGA.
Expressing long-standing aspirations for an airport in Abia, Prince Benjamin Benedict Apugo noted that he has advocated for this development for the past 24 years.
He expressed his gratitude to Minister Keyamo and President Tinubu for making the dream a reality, saying, “I am very happy to be here today because this has been my wish.”
Commissioners for Lands and Housing, Mr. Chaka Chukwumerije, and Transport, Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu, also spoke at the event, describing the airport project as a gateway to global connections and a crucial driver of economic and sustainable growth.
They revealed that the airport will be built on 1,325 hectares of land, with assurances that compensation will be provided to land donors.