The Abia State Government has confirmed that compensation payments have been made to landowners affected by the Abia Airport project, particularly those along the airport runway, while assuring that any outstanding cases will be addressed individually.
The disclosure was made on Friday during a fact-finding visit to the Nsulu community, Isialangwa North LGA, by the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, alongside the Commissioner for Lands and Housing, Mr. Chaka Chukwumerije, and other top government officials. The visit followed concerns raised by some community members who claimed they had not received their payments.
Pastor Ajagba explained that while most landowners have been paid, some cases remain pending due to incomplete indemnity certificates or banking issues. “We have paid about 3,500 people within the runway. For those who haven’t received payment, it’s often due to human error, account issues, or missing indemnity certificates. Every eligible person will be paid,” he said.
He further emphasized that the Nsulu people are supportive of the airport project, but rightly expect payment for all enumerated land areas. Pastor Ajagba thanked the community for their cooperation and assured that government would fulfill all obligations to them.
Commissioner Chukwumerije reinforced that all landowners within the runway have been compensated, adding that exceptions would be handled on a case-by-case basis. He clarified that areas mistakenly cleared by operators were due to human error and confirmed that payments for remaining landowners outside the runway would be completed by the end of September 2025.
Community leaders and landowners, including Mr. Echezola Ukaumunna, Onyenmaobi Nwairo, Isaac Frank, Chief Isaac Ndubuisi, and John Aliche, expressed satisfaction with the visit and explanations, pledging continued support for the airport project.
Other officials present during the visit included the Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Mr. Matthew Ekwuribe, and Pastor Okorougo Aji, Special Assistant to the Governor on Lands and Housing and Project Coordinator for Abia Airport.
The government’s engagement underscores its commitment to transparency, responsive governance, and the timely execution of the Abia Airport project.
Reported by: Stone Reporters News
📩 info@stonereportersnews.com | 🌍 stonereportersnews.com
📘 Facebook: Stone Reporters | 🐦 X (Twitter): @StoneReportNews
Add comment
Comments