Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has said that the government has paid full compensation for lands acquired for the construction of the Abia Airport project in Nsulu, Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area.
He made the disclosure on Saturday during a Grand Civic Reception and Appreciation Ceremony organised by stakeholders from Isiala Ngwa North and South LGAs at Okpuala-Ngwa, according to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
Otti stated that the government ensured all affected landowners received 100% compensation before any construction activities began.
“Governor Alex Otti, on Saturday, confirmed that the state government has paid full compensation to owners of the lands acquired for the Abia Airport project in Nsulu,” the NAN report read in part.
It further quoted Gov. Otti as saying: “Before any construction began, we ensured that 100% compensation was paid to all landowners.
“If there is anyone yet to receive payment, it is likely due to issues like incorrect account details or disputes over ownership, not government negligence.”
The governor also revealed plans to transform the airport site into a full-fledged “airport city,” featuring a three- or four-star hotel, shopping plazas, markets, and a Nigerian Air Force base.
He emphasized that the project was intended to uplift, not displace, local communities.
The Abia Airport project is a partnership between the Abia State Government and the Federal Government. While the Federal Government initially proposed an airstrip, Abia State chose to upgrade it to a full airport.
The state government’s official website noted that Access Bank has expressed interest in supporting the project. Construction began in December 2024.
The Governor’s Special Adviser on Land Matters, Okor Aji, dismissed the claims, stating the land size was already reduced following earlier concerns. He noted the airport is a Federal Government project, and the land was acquired under the Land Use Act.