Every Moment is a New Chance: The Socioeconomic Benefits of the New Abia State Airport Project Engagement
The Federal Government team from the Ministry of Aviation visited Abia State to inspect a proposed site for the airport. The team, led by Dr. Emmanuel Meribeole, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Aviation, aimed to ensure the land and location align with regulatory requirements for airport siting.
Governor Alex Otti mentioned that the state government had identified a suitable location, and he emphasized the importance of the airport’s location, stating that it was crucial for the project’s success.
The airport project has gained momentum, with Access Bank expressing willingness to partner with the Abia State Government to finance the project. This collaboration is expected to enhance the state’s economic growth through job creation, commerce promotion, and revenue generation.
For instance, it will serve as an Economic Engine: to generate over N602 billion in economic output annually, supporting Abia State’s and the Nigerian economy. Secondly, it will serve an Employment Hub creating over 300,000 jobs in 10 years (especially as Aba is a vital factor in International trade,) both directly and indirectly, in aviation, logistics, and related industries. Thirdly, as trades and tourism grows especially from our teeming citizens in the diaspora, Abia Airport will become an International Gateway which will handle over 6 million passengers annually, fostering global trade, tourism, and cultural exchange. As Nigeria moves towards empowering the regions to spur growth and development, the airport will become a Regional Catalyst which stimulate economic growth in all metropolitan areas, particularly in Aba, Umuahia, Ohafia and Abiriba.
We can not ignore the prospects for Global Connectivity as it will facilitate international business, trade, and tourism, bridging cities and countries. The much needed Economic Resilience that Otti needs will be birthed as it will contribute to our state’s economic stability and growth.
Dr Alex Otti has been a major and firm believer in Infrastructure Development. Therefore, this will drive investment in transportation infrastructure, benefiting surrounding regions.
On a personal note, there are challenges such as Sustainability where the airports should focus on reducing environmental impact through initiatives like carbon offsetting and green infrastructure. Coming from the private sector, Otti understands the essence inserting self sustaining Capacity Expansion in the project cycle, this is because airport management is a serious business as regards expansion that enhances capacity, efficiency, and passenger experience. Finally, in my humble suggestion, Innovation should be engrained by not only Implementing cutting-edge technology, such as biometric screening and automation, but sustain the improvement of security and passenger flow.
Dr Chukwuemeka Ifegwu Eke writes from the University of Abuja Nigeria.
