The Abia State Government announced that it has paid compensation to landowners whose properties lie along the runway of the Abia Airport project. Officials said that any remaining payments are likely due to exceptional cases that will be handled individually. This clarification follows a protest by villagers earlier this week, who claimed they had not received compensation.
Chief of Staff to the Governor, Caleb Ajagba, made the announcement during a fact‑finding visit to the Nsulu community in Isialangwa North LGA, accompanied by Commissioner for Lands and Housing Chaka Chukwumerije and other senior officials. Ajagba explained that some landowners have experienced delays because of issues with their bank accounts or incomplete indemnity certificates, which are required for payment. He assured the community that those who have not yet received payment will be attended to once they complete the necessary indemnity certificates and emphasized that the Nsulu community is not opposed to the airport project.
The government has reportedly compensated approximately 3,500 people and has resolved disputes over land that was mistakenly cleared by a contractor. Commissioner Chukwumerije reiterated that landowners have been paid and that any outstanding cases will be addressed individually.
Community leader Echezola Ukaumunna praised the government’s visit, saying it helped clear up misconceptions and misinterpretations. He attributed the confusion to a lack of proper communication from the community’s traditional ruler. The Abia Airport project is a major development initiative for the region, and the government’s efforts to address the concerns of affected landowners are crucial to its success. With a commitment to resolving outstanding issues, the project is expected to move forward, bringing potential economic benefits to the area. The engagement with the community is seen as a positive step toward building trust and ensuring the project is implemented fairly and transparently.
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