ISIALA NGWA, Dec. 11 (AGCNewsNet) – The Abia State Government has announced the commencement of construction for the long-anticipated Abia Airport in Nsulu, Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area. The groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for Tuesday, December 17, 2024, with the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, presiding. 

The project, initially planned as an airstrip by the federal government, has been upgraded to a full airport through a partnership between the Abia State Government and the federal government. According to Abia's Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, this collaboration will ensure the construction of a modern runway capable of accommodating larger aircraft. 

Residents of the communities hosting the airport had previously expressed concerns about the project. However, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Caleb Ajagba, stated that the government has undertaken extensive community engagements to address these issues and secure consent from local leaders. 

“We are ready, and there is no opposition to the project among the community leaders,” Ajagba affirmed. “This meeting was to prepare their minds for the government’s delegation that will engage them community by community, starting today.” 

The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, emphasized that the airport will be a significant driver of economic growth and connectivity for Abia State. He also highlighted the project’s potential to transform the state into a regional hub for air travel and commerce. 

In a related initiative, construction has also begun on Gusau International Airport in Zamfara State, which is designed to accommodate both domestic and international flights. Zamfara Governor Dauda Lawal described the airport as a "smart facility" equipped with modern amenities to enhance operational efficiency. 

These projects reflect ongoing efforts to expand Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure and foster regional development.

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