Evaluating Otti’s Strategic Partnership for Abia Airport Development
Ebere Uzoukwa, Ph.D
The groundbreaking ceremony of the Abia International Airport on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, marked a significant milestone in Abia State’s pursuit of economic growth and development. Governor Alex Otti’s strategic partnership with the federal government, particularly the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, has been instrumental in bringing this project to fruition.
This partnership is a testament to the governor’s commitment to seizing opportunities that drive progress and development in Abia State. Governor Otti’s administration has demonstrated a commitment to collaboration and partnership, leading to the expansion of channels with international development partners. This has resulted in significant investments in critical social and economic sectors, including healthcare and education.
Just recently, the state won a grant of $400,000 from one of such collaborations, which Governor Otti said would be used to support development initiatives in the primary healthcare sector.
The Abia International Airport project is expected to further position Abia State as a commercial and industrial hub of the South-East region. Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo SAN, emphasized that the airport will unlock the state’s full economic potential as an industrial hub, facilitating the direct export of goods produced in the region.
The success of the Abia Airport project can be attributed to the strategic partnership between the state government and the federal government. Governor Otti’s proactive stance and commitment to the project led to the decision to upgrade the airstrip into an international airport.
The federal government’s initiative to site an airstrip in Abia State, as captured in the 2024 Appropriation Act, was a welcome development. However, Governor Otti’s vision and leadership led to the upgrade of the project into a full-fledged international airport.
Governor Otti and Minister Keyamo have addressed critics who question the viability of the airport project. The governor emphasized that the project is a critical component of the state’s vision to open up to the world.
The Abia International Airport project is a landmark development for the region, expected to boost trade, industrialization, and connectivity. The airport will facilitate the direct export of goods produced in the region, reducing the need for manufacturers to transport their goods to other parts of the country for export.
In addition to its economic benefits, the airport will also play a critical role in ensuring accessibility across the country, particularly during emergencies such as natural disasters. Minister Keyamo noted that it was not good that Abia had been cut off from the aviation ecosystem of the country, emphasizing that an airport is not just an economic asset but a social necessity.
The Abia International Airport project is a testament to the power of collaboration and visionary leadership. Governor Otti’s strategic partnership with the federal government has brought this project to fruition, demonstrating the effectiveness of intergovernmental partnerships in driving development initiatives.
The airport project is also expected to have a positive impact on the state’s infrastructure development. The construction of the airport will lead to the development of ancillary infrastructure, including roads, hotels, and other facilities.
Furthermore, the Abia International Airport project will play a critical role in promoting tourism in the state. The airport will provide easy access to tourists and visitors, who will be able to explore the state’s rich cultural heritage and natural attractions.
Abians shall remain grateful to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo SAN, for initially approving an airstrip for the state. The governor, Dr. Alex Otti, on his part, has also written his name in the sands of history for his vision and commitment to seizing the opportunity to build an international airport for the state.
The intervention of the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba Ph.D, an illustrious son of Nsulu, and other well-meaning sons and daughters of that ancient clan shall be remembered for their roles in making the airport a reality when some persons attempted to incite the people against siting the airport project in the area.
Abia is indeed restored on the path of progress and prosperity.
Dr. Ebere Uzoukwa is the SSA on Public Affairs to the Governor of Abia State.