Keyamo Set to Inaugurate Nsulu Airport Construction in Abia

The Minister of Aviation, Mr. Festus Keyamo, will inaugurate the construction of an airport in Nsulu, Abia State, on Tuesday next week.

EKO HOT BLOG reports that the announcement was made by the Abia State Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, during a press briefing after the weekly Executive Council meeting in Umuahia. Kanu explained that the project is a collaborative effort between the Federal Government and the Abia State Government.

Initially planned as an airstrip by the Federal Government, Governor Alex Otti advocated for its upgrade to a full-fledged airport. “The state will contribute by constructing standard runways to accommodate large aircraft,” Kanu stated, emphasizing that the airport would boost Abia’s socio-economic activities and tourism potential upon completion.

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Educational Initiatives

In addition to the airport project, Kanu announced plans to establish 20 smart schools across the state’s 17 local government areas, as part of Governor Otti’s initiative to revitalize education.

The smart schools will be equipped with interactive boards, internet connectivity, and other modern facilities. Selected existing schools will be upgraded, and additional teachers will be recruited to support the initiative.

This program aligns with the government’s policy of providing free and compulsory education for students from primary school to Junior Secondary 3, set to begin in January 2025. “The policy aims to eliminate out-of-school children in Abia,” Kanu said.

Health and Infrastructure Developments

The Commissioner reassured the public of the state’s readiness to address potential health challenges, reporting no cases of COVID-19 variants, m-pox, diphtheria, or chickenpox. He also highlighted the renovation of an Emergency Operation Centre by Caritas, which will enhance disease outbreak response.

On infrastructure, Kanu announced the completion of three newly renovated roads in Aba, increasing the total number of roads reconstructed by the administration to 147.

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Upcoming Budget Presentation

Governor Alex Otti is scheduled to present the 2025 appropriation budget to the State House of Assembly on Tuesday. The budget will align with Abia’s fiscal and economic development goals.

Enhancing Public Education

Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Mr. Ferdinand Ekeoma, criticized the poor standards in some private schools. He expressed confidence that the introduction of smart schools and improved teacher welfare, particularly in rural areas, would elevate public school quality and potentially attract students from private institutions.

The briefing was also attended by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, and the Commissioner for Basic Education, Dr. Goodluck Ubochi, who reiterated the administration’s commitment to transformative governance in Abia State.

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