The Abia State Airport project has taken a significant step forward with the commencement of clearing for the access road leading to the runway. This development follows assurances from CRANEBURG Construction Company, the project consultants, that they will prioritize the employment of both skilled and unskilled labor from the host community of Nsulu in Isialangwa North LGA. This commitment to local engagement underlines a focus on community integration and shared prosperity alongside the infrastructural development. The company’s manager, Seba El-Nemer, expressed gratitude to Governor Alex Otti and the Nsulu community for their collaborative efforts in facilitating the project’s smooth takeoff. This initial phase of creating access roads and fencing represents tangible progress, building confidence among stakeholders.
The visit of the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Calab Ajagba, to the project site further underscored the government’s commitment to the airport’s realization. He emphasized the collaborative nature of the project with the Federal Government and dispelled any misconceptions about the community’s support for the endeavor. Ajagba’s affirmation of the local population’s receptiveness to the airport project serves to solidify the narrative of collaborative development. His assurance that compensation payments to landowners have commenced reinforces the government’s commitment to transparency and equitable dealings, instilling trust among the affected communities. This proactive approach to addressing land ownership issues is crucial for the sustained progress of the project.
The Special Assistant to the Governor on Land and Housing, also the Project Coordinator for the Abia Airport Project, provided a timeline for the clearing of the 853-kilometer access road, estimating completion within five to seven days. This access road is crucial for conducting the necessary soil tests and other investigations at the runway site, laying the groundwork for the subsequent phases of construction. This detailed update on the project’s progression reinforces the government’s dedication to transparency and accountability in its execution.
The government’s responsiveness to community concerns is further evident in the reduction of the land area designated for the airport from the initial 1,800 hectares to 1,000 hectares. This adjustment, championed by Rt. Hon. Uzor Azubuike, leader of the landowners in the Government Land Owners Forum for Abia State Airport Nsulu, demonstrates a willingness to engage with local stakeholders and accommodate their needs. This collaborative approach fosters a sense of ownership and shared responsibility for the project’s success.
The voices of the Nsulu community, including youth leaders, women, and representatives of the community relations committee, resonate with excitement and anticipation for the airport’s completion. Their expressions of support reflect the perceived potential for economic growth and development that the airport represents for their region. This shared sense of optimism signifies a positive reception of the project within the community and bolsters the prospects for long-term sustainability.
The Abia Airport project, marked by collaborative engagement with local communities, transparent compensation processes, and responsiveness to community concerns, stands as a testament to inclusive development. The project’s emphasis on local employment opportunities, coupled with the positive reception from the Nsulu community, signals a shared vision for economic advancement and regional prosperity. The project’s progression, marked by the commencement of access road clearing and ongoing compensation payments, signifies tangible progress toward its realization. The ongoing communication and engagement between the government, contractors, and the local community highlight the collaborative approach adopted for this significant infrastructural development. This collaborative framework sets a positive precedent for future development projects within the state.
