Toba Owojaiye reporting
The unveiling of the Abia Airport project at Nsulu stands as a testament to Nigeria’s growing commitment to harnessing infrastructure as a springboard for socio-economic transformation.
Truth Live News gathered that, during the groundbreaking ceremony, the Minister for Aviation, Festus Keyamo, lauded the initiative as a “veritable enabler for socio-economic development,” highlighting Abia’s position as a hub for industrialization in the South East.
This project, an ambitious collaboration between Governor Alex Otti’s administration and the federal government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is set to redefine the state’s economic landscape. Initially conceived as an airstrip, Governor Otti’s strategic intervention expanded it into a full-fledged airport, further demonstrating the strength of state-federal partnerships.
Governor Otti’s vision extends beyond aviation; his plans for an airport city, revitalized Nsulu Games Village, and tourism facilities exemplify a forward-thinking approach to sustainable development. “This project signals to the world that Abia is ready for economic transformation,” Otti declared, underlining the administration’s commitment to creating a business-friendly environment.
The Abia Airport initiative aligns with similar aviation projects launched during President Tinubu’s administration, emphasizing a renewed focus on infrastructure as a catalyst for growth. Notable among these is the Ebonyi State International Airport, commissioned in 2023, which serves Ebonyi, Abia, Benue, and parts of Cross River states. Its resilient runway and state-of-the-art facilities have already positioned it as a significant regional hub. Additionally, the ongoing transformation of Akure Airport into an aerotropolis highlights the federal government’s drive to integrate aviation with urban development.
Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu and other dignitaries, including former Senate President Adolphus Wabara, have commended the federal government’s deliberate focus on the South East. The approval of the South East Development Commission, alongside these airport projects, symbolizes a renewed federal commitment to balanced regional growth.
Covering 1,325 hectares, the Abia Airport promises not just better connectivity but also opportunities for urbanization, tourism, and global commerce. Commissioners Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu and Chaka Chukwumerije affirmed its potential to act as a gateway to the world, while mechanisms for compensating landowners ensure community inclusiveness.
With projects like the Abia Airport, Ebonyi State International Airport, and Akure’s aerotropolis, Nigeria is taking bold strides toward economic transformation. These investments signal a united vision for progress, where regional connectivity and sustainable development are prioritized for the nation’s prosperity. Abia is soaring into a brighter future, inspiring other states to follow suit.