The Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development has granted approval for the Kogi State Government to construct an international airport in Zariagi.
The approval, confirmed by the Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, was conveyed in a letter dated October 9, 2024, from the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development.
Commissioner Fanwo highlighted the Ododo administration’s commitment to ensuring the project’s timely completion in line with aviation regulations. He noted that the proposed airport would serve as a crucial transportation hub, benefiting Kogi and ten other states by easing traffic congestion on the Lokoja-Abuja road and reducing demand on Abuja’s international airport.
“The strategic location of Kogi State makes it an ideal center for expanding Nigeria’s aviation network,” Fanwo said, emphasizing the economic boost and job creation the airport would bring, along with positioning Kogi as a global aviation destination. He added that the airport would also have cargo capabilities, a key focus for the project.
Fanwo expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Aviation Minister for their support, and assured Kogi residents that Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s administration would continue to prioritize impactful projects.
The airport is planned for the strategically located community of Zariagi, which already houses an airstrip. After a review of the site, the Federal Aviation Ministry team approved the Kogi State Government’s plans for the development.
