Abia State Governor Alex Otti is set to officially launch the long-awaited airport project located in Nsulu, Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area, on Tuesday, December 17, 2024.
The event, which will also be attended by the Minister of Aviation, Mr. Festus Keyamo, marks the beginning of a major infrastructure initiative that has been at the center of controversy since it was proposed by former Governor Okezie Ikpeazu.
During a press briefing, State Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, confirmed that all arrangements for the flag-off have been finalized, according to Independent.
He explained that although the airport was initially not a priority for the current administration, Governor Otti decided to collaborate with the federal government after it announced plans for an airstrip in the state.
This partnership, according to Kanu, will lead to the transformation of the airstrip into a full-fledged airport, complete with the necessary runways to accommodate larger aircraft.
The commissioner highlighted that the major stakeholders are fully on board to ensure the success of the project, which he described as a significant step for the state’s development.
In addition to the airport project, Prince Kanu also announced that Governor Otti will present the 2025 Abia State Budget estimate to the State House of Assembly on Tuesday, December 10, 2024.
The presentation aligns with the state government’s commitment to fiscal responsibility and sustainable development. Kanu emphasized that the event is expected to attract numerous political and economic stakeholders from across the state.
Furthermore, the commissioner revealed that Governor Otti has approved the establishment of 20 smart schools across the 17 local government areas of the state, a move aimed at improving the education sector. The retrofitting of existing schools will also continue. A new law mandating compulsory school attendance for children will take effect on January 1, 2024.
Under this law, it will be an offense for parents or guardians to neglect sending their children to school, with the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Elder Goodluck Ubochi, directed to enforce compliance.
On the health front, Prince Kanu stated that Abia is free from the new COVID-19 variant XEC, as well as from diphtheria, Mpox, and Cholera, according to the Center for Disease Control.
“This unique partnership will lead to the construction of the requisite runways that would land bigger aircrafts when completed”. Prince Kanu stated.
He also announced the completion of renovations at the Emergency Operation Centre, funded by CARITAS, which has now been handed over to the Ministry of Health. This center will serve as a hub for coordinating responses to public health emergencies.
Regarding infrastructure, Kanu reported that the Ministry of Works has completed three new road projects in Aba, including Cemetery Road Phase 2, Umule Road, and Umuocham Road, all of which will be commissioned soon. These projects bring the total number of commissioned roads under Governor Otti’s administration to 20, in addition to 147 rehabilitated roads across Aba, Umuahia, and other parts of the state.
Finally, Kanu assured residents and visitors that adequate security measures are in place to ensure a safe and enjoyable yuletide season. He also mentioned that preparations are underway to provide a festive atmosphere for all.
Elder Goodluck Ubochi, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, added that the smart schools initiative would initially focus on secondary schools, with existing facilities being retrofitted and teachers’ skills upgraded to ensure quality education.
