Nigerian govt mulls takeover of Ebonyi Int Airport

The Ebonyi State Government has revealed that the Federal Government is seeking to take control of the Chuba Okadigbo International Airport, which was commissioned in May 2023.

Dr. Ngozi Obichukwu, Commissioner for Aviation and Transport Technology, made this disclosure at the 9th Airport Business Summit and Expo in Lagos, on Tuesday.

According to Obichukwu, the state government has completed the resurfacing of the runway and is awaiting NCAA approval to reopen the airport for operations. However, the Federal Government is negotiating to take over the facility, with discussions ongoing on the modalities for the handover.

The commissioner emphasized that the state government is willing to partner with the Federal Government on airport operations. The airport, which cost N42 billion, was conceived and constructed by the previous administration in Ebonyi State.

She said: “On the 30th July 2024, the runway was completed to even international standards. It is a runway that can now last for more than 100 years because of the base. We are only waiting for some approvals to commence flight services.

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“The length of the runway is 3.1km with the capacity to accommodate even a Boeing 747 series. We can take about 1,000 passengers at a go. So, we are just expecting to take off immediately if the NCAA gives us the approval to commence operations.

“Right now, we are liaising with the Ministry of Aviation for the takeover of the airport and the refund of the expenses on the airport. We have gotten to a good stage where we are now handing over to them to take over even the staff.

“Even at that, we are still willing to carry on with the aviation activities. As we speak, aviation aeronautical university has kicked off and it’s just beside the airport and we are ready to go. By the grace of God, through the prudence management of our dear governor, we will be able to kick off until the Federal Government takes it over.”

The Chuba Okadigbo International Airport, which gulped about N42 billion, was conceived and constructed by the past administration in Ebonyi State.

The airport was deemed completed and commissioned by the past administration of David Umahi who is now Minister of Works.

Key highlights:

– Runway resurfaced from concrete to asphalt for improved operational comfort
– Airport has a 3.1km runway capable of accommodating Boeing 747 series
– Awaiting NCAA approval for reopening
– Federal Government seeking takeover, with negotiations ongoing
– State government willing to partner on operations

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