Aviation Minister promises support for Anambra Cargo Airport, commends Obiano

Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika said the Federal Government would support the Anambra State Cargo project being embarked by the State Governor, Chief Willie Obiano, saying, when the project is completed, it would be of economic benefit to the State and Southeast region of the country.

Commending the governor while paying a courtesy visit to his office, the Minister said the Federal Ministry of Aviation and its agencies would stand by any State embarking on cargo projects to ensure it meets the world standard.

Speaking through a statement Tuesday by Director of Public Affairs, Ministry of Aviation, James Odaudu, Hadi Sirika noted that Anambra cargo airport and others when built with specific objectives would serve the business interests of people from the zone.

According to him, the governor should adhere strictly to the regulatory agency’s regulations and guidelines, as well as collaboration for the realisation of operations of the airport.

Earlier, Governor Willie Obiano had said that Anambra International Cargo Airport, located at Umueri will be ready for commissioning in April 2021 and that the state would be honoured to have him perform the task.

“We are sure of the date because we have the money to compete it. We are not asking for any assistance, neither are we taking any loans. I am here personally to brief you on the project and to invite you to commission it for us in April 2021”

Obiano told the Minister that the decision to embark on the airport project was informed by the need to cater for the economic interests of the state and its environs.

The airport, he said, has the second longest runway in the country, after the Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos, built with the best available materials, with a guaranteed lifespan of 100 years.

“The airport is just a few kilometres from Onitsha town, the economic nerve centre of the south east region. It is strategically located and is a worthwhile investment.”

According to the Governor, the construction of the airport has been guided by recommendations and guidelines of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) as it hopes to meet the best international standards.