Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has revealed how Governor Alex Otti convinced President Bola Tinubu to support the Abia International Airport project.
According to Keyamo, the Federal Government initially planned to build an airstrip in Abia State. However, Otti pushed for a bigger project and proposed the construction of a full international airport.
How Alex Otti Changed the Original Plan
Keyamo explained that the Federal Government included an airstrip for Abia State in the 2024 budget.
He said the project was approved after he informed President Tinubu that Abia lacked both an airport and an airstrip.
However, Governor Otti later approached the president with a different proposal.
According to the minister, Otti requested that the project be upgraded to an Abia International Airport through a counterpart funding arrangement.
Otti Proposed Counterpart Funding
Speaking on the development, Keyamo praised the governor’s initiative.
He said Otti assured President Tinubu that the state government would provide additional funding for the project.
Furthermore, the governor reportedly asked the Federal Government to release the funds earmarked for the airstrip while the state contributed more resources to build a modern international airport.
Keyamo said:
“Dr Alex Otti went directly to Mr President and proposed a full international airport instead of an airstrip. He promised counterpart funding for the project.”
Abia International Airport Project Underway
The minister disclosed that construction activities have already commenced.
Moreover, he stated that Abia State has contributed more funds to the project than the Federal Government.
He added that the airport project is progressing under the leadership of Governor Otti.
The development is expected to improve transportation and boost economic activities in Abia State and the wider South-East region.
FG Plans Direct Cargo Flights to Enugu
Meanwhile, Keyamo announced plans for direct cargo flights between Guangzhou, China, and Enugu State.
According to him, discussions are ongoing with the Enugu State Government to make the Akanu Ibiam International Airport a major cargo hub.
The minister said the first direct cargo flight from Guangzhou to Enugu could begin operations in December.
Benefits for South-East Traders
Keyamo explained that the cargo route would benefit traders across the South-East.
He noted that business owners travelling to China would be able to transport goods directly to Enugu.
Consequently, products can be distributed more efficiently to major commercial centres such as Onitsha and Aba.
The initiative is expected to strengthen trade links between Nigeria and China while supporting economic growth in the region.
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