The Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development has granted approval for the Kogi State Government to construct an international airport in the Zariagi community.
The decision was confirmed in a letter dated October 9, 2024, from the ministry, as announced by Kingsley Fanwo, the State Commissioner for Information and Communications, in a press release on Friday.
Fanwo emphasized that under the leadership of Governor Usman Ododo, the state administration is committed to the project’s timely completion, adhering strictly to all regulatory standards.
He highlighted the airport’s potential to serve not only Kogi State but also ten neighboring states, thereby alleviating traffic on the heavily congested Lokoja-Abuja road and easing the burden on Abuja’s International Airport.
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“The Ododo administration has considered it a top priority for Kogi State to have an international airport and to join the league of aviation hubs,” Fanwo stated. “The strategic location of the state is undoubtedly an invaluable advantage in harnessing the aviation service market as the center of the nation.”
The construction of the airport is expected to significantly boost Kogi’s economy by creating jobs and enhancing the state’s visibility on the global stage.
Fanwo assured residents that the governor is committed to employing top industry professionals to ensure the project’s success, noting, “Aviation is an industry built on trust and standards.”
He expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Aviation Minister for their historic approval, which is anticipated to further develop Kogi State.
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Additionally, the airport is planned to accommodate cargo operations, aligning with the administration’s focus on expanding commercial aviation services.
Fanwo further reassured the people of Kogi State that the Ododo administration will continue to implement significant projects to build upon the successes of the previous eight years.
The Zariagi community, which already features an airstrip, was deemed a suitable location for the new airport, as confirmed by a visiting team from the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development.
As the project progresses, Kogi State is poised to enhance its aviation infrastructure and connect more residents to both domestic and international travel opportunities.