Governor Alex Otti has given update on the proposed Abia airport project at Nsulu, Isiala Ngwa North.
According to him, the initiative is primarily a federal project.
Speaking at a media briefing on Friday night in Umuahia, Otti explained that while the federal government originally planned to construct an airstrip in the state, his administration successfully persuaded the federal government to scale it up to a full-scale airport.
The state government has committed to supporting the project by building a runway, which distinguishes an airstrip from an airport. However, the Governor emphasized that the project remains a federal undertaking, with no shared financial burden between the state and federal governments.
The airport project is set to be launched on Tuesday by the Minister of Aviation, Mr. Festus Keyamo. Governor Otti expressed his gratitude to the federal government for the initiative.
Regarding the forensic audit of his predecessor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, which revealed the alleged mismanagement of N10 billion on a non-existent airport project, Otti confirmed that investigations are still ongoing. He revealed that certain officials from the former administration have been questioned by anti-graft agencies, assuring that the matter has not been ignored.
On the decision to abandon the proposed airport site chosen by previous administrations, Otti explained that the location has now become a built-up area, making it unsuitable for an airport.
Constructing an airport there would require demolishing existing structures and paying compensation to landowners. The new site, he stated, is strategically located between Aba and Umuahia, and the state government plans to compensate the landowners.
The Governor dismissed the protests against the new airport site as politically motivated, claiming they stem from individuals who feel threatened by his administration’s success in accomplishing what they could not during their tenure.
Governor Otti also touched on several other state issues. He confirmed that the 2024 budget had exhausted allocations for road projects, including the Ariam Usaka ring road in Ikwuano, but assured that the project is included in the 2025 budget.
He further announced that the promised 13th-month salary for state workers will be paid alongside their December salary to ease financial strain during the holiday season.
On education, Otti revealed plans to establish 20 smart schools in the state to enhance the quality of education, one of his administration’s key development pillars. He also highlighted plans to recruit more teachers, particularly for rural schools, and is considering special welfare packages for rural educators.
Lastly, Otti vowed to implement the recommendations from the White Paper on the Visitation Panel of Abia State University, Uturu.
