Abia partners FG to reconstruct Ariam/Usaka/Ikwuano-Ikot Ekpene road, airport project
The Abia State Government has confirmed its collaboration with the Federal Government on two major infrastructure projects: an airport in Abia State and the Ariam/Usaka Ikwuano-Ikot Ekpene Road.
Governor Alex Otti made the announcement during a church service at Christ Embassy on Library Avenue, Bank Road, Umuahia, according to Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, the governor’s Chief Press Secretary.
He emphasised that work on these projects would begin soon, and that the partnership with the Federal Government on the airport project would be officially announced shortly.
“I want to reassure the pastor that we are taking all necessary steps to address the Ikot Ekpene-Ariama/Usaka situation. Gov. Otti stated that work on the Ikwuano Road from Akwa-Ibom will begin soon, similar to the partnership with the Federal Government for the Airport Project, which will be advertised soon.
These projects are part of the Abia State Government’s efforts to boost the state’s economy and improve connectivity.
The Abia State Government announced on May 23, 2024, that the Federal Government had approved the development of an airstrip in Abia State.
However, the Abia State Government has expressed a willingness to work with the Federal Government to expand the airstrip into a full-fledged airport.
Additionally, Access Bank expressed interest in collaborating with the Abia State Government on the airport project.
A Federal Government team from the Ministry of Aviation, including representatives from various aviation agencies such as the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET), Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), and Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), had already visited Abia State to inspect the proposed location for the new airport.
The Abia State Government anticipates that if all goes well, a runway and terminal building will be completed within the next year, with additional facilities to follow.
