Former aviation minister Osita Chidoka says Anambra State does not need its own airport

FORMER aviation minister Osita Chidoka has asked the Anambra State governor Willie Obiano to jettison the idea of building an airport in the state as it is not necessary given the availability of other ones nearby.

In April this year, Governor Obiano announced plans to build a N2bn ($6.3m) Umueri International Cargo Airport, saying this was in fulfilment of his campaign promises of making Anambra State an international economic hub. However, Mr Chidoka has described the project as a misplaced priority.

Speaking at the golden jubilee celebration of the Anglican Bishop on the Niger, Rt Reverend Owen Nwokolo, at the Basilica at St Andrews Anglican Church, Mr Chidoka said the state did not need an airport now. Anambra State is close to Port Harcourt and Owerri, both of which have international airports.

Governor Obiano, who was also at the gathering, had earlier listed the airport project as one of the numerous achievements of his three-year administration that would qualify him for re-election. Next year, Anambrans are due to go to the polls and Governor Obiano is standing for re-election.