Abia State Governor Alex Otti has assured that full compensation has been paid to all landowners affected by the Abia Airport project in Nsulu, Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area. Speaking at a Grand Civic Reception and Appreciation Ceremony on Saturday, Governor Otti emphasized that 100% compensation was disbursed before construction began, attributing any outstanding payments to issues such as incorrect bank details or ownership disputes rather than government negligence.
The Abia Airport project, a collaboration between the Abia State and Federal Governments, was initially proposed as an airstrip but has been upgraded by the state to a full-fledged airport to boost regional connectivity and economic growth. Construction commenced in December 2024, with Access Bank expressing interest in supporting the initiative.
Governor Otti revealed ambitious plans to transform the airport site into an “airport city,” featuring a three- or four-star hotel, shopping plazas, markets, and a Nigerian Air Force base. Access roads are currently under construction and expected to be completed by December 2025. The choice of Nsulu as the location was based on expert recommendations for its central position and accessibility to Umuahia and Aba, the state’s major urban centers.
Despite the government’s assurances, some local communities, notably Umuezeukwu, have renewed calls for a 500-meter buffer zone between their homes and the airport site, citing concerns about impacts on ancestral lands and farmlands. They allege that previous requests for setbacks were ignored and no relief was provided during earlier land reductions. The initial land acquisition was reportedly reduced from 1,850 hectares to just over 1,000 hectares after community consultations, though Umuezeukwu claims exclusion from concessions.
The Governor’s Special Adviser on Land Matters, Okor Aji, dismissed these claims, stating that the land size was already reduced following earlier concerns and underscored that the airport is a Federal Government project with land acquired under the Land Use Act.
Community leaders have also raised concerns about transparency in the land acquisition and compensation process, calling for detailed public disclosure of landowners and compensation amounts to prevent irregularities. Some private surveys suggest discrepancies in the actual land acquired versus government claims, fueling demands for accountability.
Governor Otti reaffirmed his commitment to inclusive governance and stressed that the airport project aims to uplift local communities, not displace them. He also highlighted that any unresolved compensation issues are due to administrative challenges rather than deliberate neglect.
