Nigeria’s Federal Government has said that the second runway of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA), Abuja, would be ready in 12 months.
Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development said the government had resolved the issues on community compensation, which has impeded commencement of the initiative. He said the contractors are free to mobilise to site for delivery of the project. The Minister said this during a tour of the Abuja airport this week.
The Federal Executive Council (FEC) had in March 2022 approved a total of N92.12 billion for the construction of the second runway, with a 12-month duration.
FEC in May also approved post-contract consultancy amounting to N3.4 billion for the construction of the second runway and associated facilities at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
Keyamo also assured that the government would intensify efforts to improve chillers, lifts, and escalators at airports nationwide, to improve travellers’ experience nationwide.
Keyamo hinted at his efforts with the Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to clear “obstacles” off the way of the project. He said: “As of today, the report I have is that the communities have started receiving the money we disbursed. The Chinese company handling the project said it would clear the place next week and move to the site. So, we are going to invite Mr President to commission it.
“For Abuja, as a capital city, it is extremely important that I work with relevant agencies, and the National Assembly to make sure we deliver the project within 12 months,” Keyamo said.
The minister recalled that the project had been a controversial project from the tenure of the former President Olusegun Obasanjo till date. He, however described the second runway and ancillary facilities as critical support to the NAIA and the capital city in general.
