By Muslimat Itopa
The Kogi State Government has taken a major step toward boosting infrastructure and economic development with the award of contracts for the construction of a proposed international airport in the Zariagi area of Lokoja.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo formally presented the contract award letters to China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation and Gamji Nigeria Limited during a ceremony at the Government House.
Speaking at the event, the governor described the project as a “legacy initiative” that reflects the state’s commitment to economic transformation and regional connectivity.
He noted that the contractors emerged successful after a rigorous procurement process, assuring that the state was ready to support them to deliver a world-class facility.
Governor Ododo also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Federal Government for granting approval for the project.
He highlighted Kogi’s historical relevance in Nigeria’s aviation story, noting that one of the earliest aircraft in the country took place in the state, making the absence of a functional airport a long-standing gap.
He explained that the proposed airport would serve as a strategic alternative to the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, helping to ease congestion and improve access for travelers and investors.
According to him, Kogi’s central location linking the northern and southern parts of Nigeria and connecting several commercial hubs makes it an ideal site for such a facility.
The governor further emphasized that the project would unlock the state’s vast economic potential, particularly in solid minerals, agriculture, and trade, while also creating employment opportunities for residents.
Providing technical details, the Commissioner for Transportation, Victor Atuluku, said the airport project had undergone extensive planning and design phases within the 2025 fiscal year.
He explained that the facility would be developed in key components, including the landside, terminal building, and airside infrastructure.
He disclosed that China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation would handle the core technical aspects of the airport, including the terminal building and runway systems, while Gamji Nigeria Limited would be responsible for perimeter fencing.
Atuluku revealed that the airport would feature a 3.6-kilometre runway capable of accommodating some of the largest aircraft in the world, including heavy cargo planes.
The project is expected to sit on approximately 4,000 hectares of land, with provisions for future expansion.
He added that the airport would also support cargo operations, with facilities such as warehouses and a cargo terminal, positioning Kogi as a logistics hub in the region.
The projected passenger capacity is estimated at about 250,000 annually.
In their separate remarks, representatives of the contracting firms pledged to deliver the project in line with international standards.
A representative of China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation, Jun Don Pin, said the company was honoured by the opportunity and would deploy its expertise to ensure timely and quality delivery.
Similarly, Salau Mutalib of Gamji Nigeria Limited commended the state government for its vision and assured that the company would adhere strictly to required standards in executing its aspect of the project.
The Kogi State International Airport, once completed, is expected to significantly enhance connectivity, attract investment, and stimulate economic growth, reinforcing the state’s position as a key gateway in Nigeria.
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