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Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Festus Keyamo has officially flagged off the construction of Abia International Airport at Nsulu, Isiala Ngwa North LGA of Abia State, with a declaration that President Bola Tinubu is interested in connecting Abia to the world.
Keyamo, who described Abia as the heartbeat of Southeast industrialisation, praised Governor Alex Otti for his vision in converting the initial federal government project from an airstrip to an international airport, as well as his commitment to providing the needed counterpart funds.
The Aviation and Aerospace Minister assured the indigenes of the host communities that they would be given priority in the first appointments and employment at the airport.
Read Also: Alex Otti Is A Prodigal Son, Will Come Back To APC – Keyamo
Also speaking, the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, said that the federal government would unveil a special programme for Nigerian youths in January 2025.
In his address, Governor Alex Otti praised President Bola Tinubu for his interest in the development of the South East.
He explained that the airport is part of his administration’s vision to extend development beyond the cities of Aba and Umuahia.
Otti said that Abia State’s economy would reap bountifully once the project is completed, with more business opportunities being created.
Otti also assured the indigenes of the host communities whose lands are to be used that they would receive compensation, even as he promised that the Nsulu Games Village would be revived.
In other news, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, says Eziukwu Market, also known as Cemetery Market, in Aba, Abia State, is a centre for production and distribution of fake and substandard drinks and beverages.
The agency made the declaration during an operation led by Mr Martins Iluyomade, Director, South-East Zone, at the market on Tuesday.
Iluyomade described the market as a centre for mass production and distribution of fake and substandard products, likening the situation to weapons of mass destruction.
The director said in spite of previous crackdowns, including a major operation in December 2023, illegal activities persisted in the market.
He said it was baffling that individuals remained recalcitrant and determined to make money at the expense of the lives of their fellow citizens.
