President Bola Tinubu has flagged off the construction of the Kogi International Cargo Airport in Zariagi, Adavi Local Government Area of the state, describing it as a major step towards attracting global investment and boosting economic growth.
Tinubu, represented by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, performed the groundbreaking ceremony on Tuesday and commended Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for his commitment to infrastructure development.
Keyamo said the project would place Zariagi and Kogi State on the global aviation map, adding that the airport would enhance the state’s economic relevance.
He dismissed criticisms of the project, arguing that infrastructure should be provided to attract businesses rather than waiting for investors to arrive before developing the necessary facilities.
According to him, the airport is expected to generate between 2,000 and 3,000 direct and indirect jobs for residents.
Earlier, Ododo described the project as a milestone in the state’s economic transformation, saying it would strengthen Kogi’s position as a hub for commerce, transportation, logistics and investment.
He said the airport would create opportunities in agriculture, mining, manufacturing, tourism and hospitality, particularly by improving farmers’ access to national and international markets.
The Commissioner for Works, Momoh Salami Ozigi, said the airport was part of efforts to diversify the state’s economy beyond its traditional dependence on the civil service.
He said the first phase would include a 3,600-metre runway, taxiways, aircraft parking apron, drainage systems, perimeter fencing and access roads.
According to him, the runway will meet International Civil Aviation Organisation standards and accommodate wide-body aircraft, including Boeing 747s.
The Managing Director of CCECC, Henry Shuo, whose company is handling the project, pledged to deploy its technical expertise to ensure successful completion.
