The Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, , has announced a bold plan to complete the Abia Airport Project in Nsulu, Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area, within 24 months, despite the 36-month contractual timeline initially agreed upon with the contractor.
In a press release issued on Sunday, December 22, 2024, by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Otti, Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, it was revealed that the Governor announced this goal during a church service at Living Faith Church (Winners Chapel) on KLM 3, Opobo Road, Aba.
Governor Otti revealed that while the contract stipulated a 36-month completion period, he had personally secured a commitment from the contractor to fast-track the project, ensuring that the airport will be operational within two years.
“A few days ago, we officially launched the Abia International Airport project. We gave the contractor 36 months to complete it, but I’ve secured a commitment that it will be ready in 24 months,” the Governor told the congregation, demonstrating his confidence in the project’s swift execution.
The Abia Airport Project was officially inaugurated on December 17, 2024, with Governor Otti, along with Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Barr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, performing the groundbreaking ceremony.
Initially, the Federal Government had proposed an airstrip for Abia in the 2024 budget, but after discussions and requests from the state government, this was revised into a fully-fledged international airport.
The project is being handled by Craneburg Construction Company, which has been tasked with bringing the airport to life.
Governor Otti’s announcement of the revised timeline came during his unannounced visit to Living Faith Church, where he was accompanied by his wife, Her Excellency Mrs. Priscilla Chidimma Otti, who was celebrating her birthday that day.
The Governor took the opportunity to thank the church for its unwavering support throughout his election campaign and the early months of his administration.
“I am here today to worship and to show my appreciation to this great congregation for their prayers and support during and after the elections,” he said.
He emphasized that despite the many achievements his administration has made in the first 18 months, there is still much more to come.
“The best is yet to come,” he declared, noting that while the state has made significant progress, the people of Abia should expect even greater things in the coming months.
His statement was met with applause and cheers from the congregation, many of whom mentioned that they have witnessed firsthand the transformative changes taking place under his leadership.
During the service, Pastor Wilson Inyang, the presiding pastor, offered special prayers for the Governor, his family, and the entire state. Prayers were also said for the First Lady, Mrs. Priscilla Chidimma Otti, in celebration of her birthday.
The service was attended by several high-ranking officials, including the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, Ph.D., Hon. Ucheonye Stephen, the Member representing Aba Central in the Abia State House of Assembly, and the Mayors of Obingwa, Aba North, and Aba South Local Government Areas. Commissioners and senior aides to the Governor were also present to support the event.
