FG Begins Construction of Another International Airport, State Governor Excited
- The Nigeria government has joined hands with Abia state government to build an international cargo airport
- Initially, the airport was supposed to be an airstrip before the intervention of President Bola Tinubu
- Abia State is currently the only SouthEast state without an airport despite its vibrant industrial hub
Legit.ng journalist Dave Ibemere has over a decade of business journalism experience with in-depth knowledge of the Nigerian economy, stocks, and general market trends.
Work has started on the construction of the Abia State International Cargo Airport in Ubahu Nsulu, Isiala Ngwa North local government area.
Festus Keyamo, the minister of aviation and aerospace development, officially launched the project on Wednesday, December 18.
Source: UGC
At the event, Keyamo revealed that President Bola Tinubu approved the upgrade as part of a presidential initiative to ensure no part of the country, particularly the South-east, is excluded from aviation development.
He added that the project is expected to boost economic activities in the region, focusing on industrialisation and trade.
His words:
"The upgrade to an international cargo airport aligns with the president’s vision of fostering inclusive development across Nigeria.
Keyamo stated that it was unacceptable for Abia to remain without an airport, prompting President Tinubu to include the siting of an airstrip for the state in the 2024 budget.
He added that the decision to upgrade the airstrip to an international cargo airport emerged after Governor Alex Otti proposed a partnership between the state and federal governments to transform the project into a full-fledged airport.
The minister stressed:
"Abia’s prominent status as the industrial hub of the South-east makes this project critical for enhancing logistics and trade."
Also speaking, the Abia State Commissioner for Lands and Housing, Chaka Chukwumerije, disclosed that 1,325.86 hectares of land had been acquired from nine communities for the airport, with full compensation promised to landowners.
Airlines announce new airfares
Legit.ng earlier reported that airlines have announced new airfares for the Christmas and New Year seasons.
A one-hour flight now costs N314,000 for traditionally busy routes, with some routes priced higher.
Among all Nigerian airlines, only Aero Contractors has decided to reduce its economy class ticket to N80,000 for all destinations.
Proofreading by James, Ojo Adakole, journalist and copy editor at Legit.ng.
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Source: Legit.ng
