The Ebonyi State government has unveiled its intention to establish a state-owned airline, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing development of the Chuba Okadigbo International Airport in Abakiliki.
The announcement was made by Dr. Ngozi Obichukwu, the Commissioner for Aviation and Transport Technology, during a recent inspection tour of the airport.
Dr. Obichukwu disclosed that the state government aims to venture into the airline business upon the full operationalization of the Chuba Okadigbo International Airport.
Currently, the airport is undergoing the final phase of asphalting on its runway, with completion expected by August.
Expressing confidence in the collaborative efforts of Governor Francis Nwifuru, former Governor David Umahi, and the engineering team, Dr. Obichukwu emphasized the strategic importance of the airport in boosting economic activities within the state and the wider South East region.
She stated, “Many have been asking questions, are we good to go? Are we able to deliver the road by May as we promised? With your eyes and your senses, you people have seen what we have done and the extent we have gone.
“Before the asphalting, we have started witnessing the coming in of flights, and you know, as I have said before, it is both human and cargo airport. We are good to go in terms of exporting our food. Ebonyi State is good with production. We can export our rice, our garri , and even our salt. We will package it in an acceptable way and package it out.
“We are at the centre of attraction as far as the South East is concerned. Those of them that are coming from Abia, Enugu, Anambra, and even part of Cross River will be landing here. Those of them that are travelling from outside will be landing here. It will not only be a beehive of activities, but an economic hub of the South East because many people will benefit from here,” she added.
