Abia State Government has engaged the people of Nsulu Clan in Isialangwa North Local Government Area and gained the backing for the proposed siting of the Abia Airport in their Community.
Speaking to Newsmen after a crucial meeting with representatives of the host communities, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, explained that the recent protest by a section of the host communities opposing the airport project stemmed from misinformation about the Government’s intentions.
Pastor Ajagba further explained that the State Government had already engaged the Traditional Rulers in the clan, but also decided to further engage the people to ensure they fully understand Government’s intentions.
He emphasized the importance of dialogue in addressing concerns and expressed optimism that the people will have a clearer understanding of the project’s benefits.
“There are people that may not understand the intentions of Government, that is why the engagement was initiated.
“I am sure that at the end of the engagement visit, the people will have a clear view of the intentions of Government”, the Governor’s Aide stated.
Pastor Ajagba assured that the State Government would continue its community engagement efforts, by visiting every host Community to address concerns and foster unity stressing that the project aims to benefit the people.
“The people you see here today have come from various communities and what we have been discussing is how we will continue to intensify the community engagement so that everybody is carried along in making sure that their concerns are addressed and resolved amicably”, Ajagba stated.
He said that part of the engagement is to explain to the people of Nsulu that nobody is trying to destroy their source of livelihood and pointed out that the engagement is to ensure “that Government’s developmental projects are implemented for the over all benefit of everybody”.
The Chief of Staff disclosed that traces are being cut after which enumeration would be done and added that the State Government would equally pay compensation to the members of the host communities.
Pastor Ajagba, highlighted that the Governor has shown unequal magnanimity by ensuring that every part of the State is given a sense of belonging and appreciated the people of Nsulu for their excitement about the project, which has economic benefits.
He further emphasized that no reasonable person from Nsulu would object to the proposed location of the Abia airport on Nsulu land.
Some Representatives of the Communities, including Dr. Jessy Odu and Mr. Kingsley Ukaegbu, expressed their support for the proposed siting of the Abia Airport in Nsulu land.
They revealed that out of the eight host communities, only one opposed the project, attributing the dissent to misinformation.
Highlighting the potential benefits of the airport, they emphasized its role in boosting economic activities and creating employment opportunities for the people.
The Meeting which brought together Community Leaders and other Stakeholders, also had in attendance the Airport Project Coordinator, Pastor Okorougo Aji.
