The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has revealed that Governor Alex Otti turned down a Federal Government proposal to build an airstrip in Abia State and instead pushed for the development of a full-fledged international airport.
Keyamo made the disclosure during the official unveiling of two Boeing 737-800NG aircraft acquired by United Nigeria Airlines in Lagos.
Federal Government Initially Proposed an Airstrip
According to the minister, the Federal Government had included an airstrip project for Abia State in the 2024 budget as part of efforts to expand aviation infrastructure across Nigeria.
He explained that the proposal followed his recommendation to President Bola Tinubu that Abia was the only state in the South-East without either an airport or an airstrip.
Keyamo said the President subsequently approved the inclusion of the airstrip project in the federal budget.
Otti Sought a Bigger Vision
However, rather than accepting the proposed airstrip, Governor Otti reportedly approached the President with a different proposal.
According to Keyamo, the governor requested that the project be upgraded to a full international airport through a counterpart funding arrangement involving both the Federal Government and the Abia State Government.
The minister disclosed that Otti assured the Federal Government of the state’s commitment to providing additional funding required to achieve the larger vision.
Airport Project Already Underway
Keyamo praised the governor’s initiative, noting that work on the airport project has already commenced.
He further revealed that Abia State has contributed significantly to the project, even exceeding the Federal Government’s financial contribution so far.
According to him, the development demonstrates the state’s commitment to delivering major infrastructure capable of driving economic growth and regional connectivity.
The proposed airport is expected to serve as a major transportation gateway for Abia State and neighbouring areas.
Enugu Airport Set for International Cargo Operations
The minister also disclosed ongoing discussions aimed at establishing direct international cargo flights between Guangzhou, China, and the Akanu Ibiam International Airport.
According to him, the initiative is being pursued in collaboration with the Enugu State Government as part of efforts to transform the airport into a major cargo hub for the South-East region.
Direct Guangzhou-Enugu Flights Planned
Keyamo revealed that negotiations are progressing toward launching the first direct cargo flight from Guangzhou to Enugu by December.
He explained that the arrangement would provide significant benefits for traders across the South-East, particularly those who regularly import goods from China.
Under the proposed system, goods could be transported directly from Guangzhou to Enugu, reducing logistics challenges and improving access to international markets.
Economic Benefits for the South-East
The minister noted that the cargo initiative could boost commerce and strengthen regional economic activities.
According to him, imported goods arriving through Enugu could easily be distributed to major commercial centres such as Aba and Onitsha, thereby supporting businesses and reducing transportation bottlenecks.
Stakeholders believe both the Abia airport project and the proposed Enugu cargo operations could significantly enhance transportation infrastructure and economic development across the South-East.