Federal Government Team Inspects Proposed Abia International Airport Site, Access Bank Joins as Partner

A delegation from the Federal Ministry of Aviation visited Abia State to assess the proposed site for a new airport, marking a significant step toward the project’s realization. The team, led by Dr. Emmanuel Meribole, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Aviation, conducted an on-site inspection to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements for airport development.

Governor Alex Otti, OFR, disclosed during the visit that Access Bank, one of Nigeria’s leading financial institutions, has expressed interest in partnering with the state government to develop the airport. He highlighted Access Bank’s expertise in airport project financing, having previously supported the Ogun State airport project.

Dr. Meribole reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to delivering the airport swiftly, stating that the project has been included in the 2024 Federal Appropriation Act as an airstrip. However, he acknowledged that Governor Otti’s administration aims to upscale the project into a full-fledged airport.

“The economic and developmental benefits of an airport are undeniable—job creation, revenue generation, and the promotion of commerce are among the many advantages,” Meribole noted. The inspection team included representatives from key aviation agencies such as FAAN, NCAA, NIMET, and NAMA, underscoring the Federal Government’s focus on meeting industry standards.

Governor Otti expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Minister of Aviation Festus Keyamo for their support. He assured the Federal team of Abia State’s readiness to lead the project’s implementation, emphasizing the urgency of having an airport in Abia, one of only two Nigerian states currently without one.

“Abia is in a hurry to have its own airport. We’ve identified and engaged with the landowners, and every requirement will be addressed promptly. Our target is to have the runway and terminal ready within a year,” Governor Otti said.

He further praised Access Bank’s willingness to ensure liquidity for the project, noting that the state would prioritize efficient resource management and minimize borrowing.

The Federal Government team’s visit coincided with that of Access Bank’s Managing Director, Mr. Roosevelt Ogbonna, who pledged the bank’s support for the project. Governor Otti highlighted the importance of leveraging the bank’s experience in similar projects to ensure success.

“Our collaboration with Access Bank is strategic. Their experience will help us avoid pitfalls while adopting best practices,” Otti stated.

This development signals a significant milestone for the Abia Airport project, poised to accelerate the state’s economic growth, attract investments, and enhance connectivity. With the Federal Government, Abia State, and Access Bank collaborating, stakeholders are optimistic about delivering the project within the projected timeline.

As Abia State positions itself for economic transformation, the proposed airport underscores the government’s commitment to creating infrastructure that supports development and prosperity for its people.