The Abia State Government has begun community engagements to communicate its plans for the proposed Abia airport in the Nsulu clan, located in the Isialangwa North Local Government Area.
The Chief of Staff to Governor Alex Otti, Calab Ajagba, made this announcement on Monday while addressing traditional rulers and representatives from the host communities at the palace of Eze Christopher Ebere in Umuomaita, Isialangwa North.
Ajagba explained that the government had previously met with the village heads of the various communities and secured their consent for the project. He presented letters from community stakeholders confirming their support for the airport, along with a communique signed by clan representatives endorsing the initiative.
Ajagba emphasized that there is no opposition to the project from local leaders, but the meeting was organized to prepare the community for the upcoming government delegation’s visit, set to begin on December 10, 2024. The delegation will interface with each community individually to address concerns and provide further details.
Currently, the government is clearing the site for the airport, and once the process is complete, the authorities will identify the rightful landowners and provide compensation before work officially begins.
Highlighting the economic benefits of the airport, Ajagba noted the opportunities for local employment, improved infrastructure, and amenities such as reliable electricity that the project will bring to the Nsulu clan. He urged the community not to miss this chance for development, stressing that the project is a genuine effort by Governor Alex Otti to improve the area.
Addressing recent protests by some local women, Ajagba reassured the community that the governor’s intentions were sincere and urged them to disregard politically motivated opposition.
In their responses, traditional rulers such as Eze Christopher Ebere and Eze Patrick Anaba confirmed that the government had adequately explained the project to the people and reaffirmed their support for the airport. They also addressed rumors of bribery, emphasizing that both they and their children living abroad understand the importance of the airport and fully support the initiative.
Other community representatives, including Charles Ohia and Priscila Okugo, also expressed their support, though they noted communication challenges among some local representatives. They assured the government of their backing for the airport project and pledged to work on improving communication with the broader community.
