ABUJA, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)-The Kogi State Government has begun the payment of compensation to residents of Zariagi, Kabba Junction, and Irepeni communities whose lands were acquired for the proposed airport project.
This development comes after the state government approved a contract for the dualisation of the road leading to the planned airport.
The Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, made this known in a statement on Wednesday.
He explained that the affected residents, largely farmers, had been invited to the Kogi State Bureau of Lands conference room from April 1, 2026, to receive their compensation.
The beneficiaries are required to present two passport photographs along with valid identification such as a National Identity Card, voter’s card, or driver’s licence.
Responding to the development, Fanwo described the contract award as a “significant watershed” in Governor Usman Ododo’s efforts to connect the state globally through the establishment of an international airport.
“Today’s award is further proof that the governor is determined to see the project through.
“We are fully prepared, and I can confirm that financing will not be a challenge.
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“With the governor’s financial planning expertise and support from President Bola Tinubu, we are well-positioned to complete this airport project,” Fanwo said.
He also called on residents to safeguard government infrastructure as the state continues to invest in key sectors of the economy.
On Wednesday, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Works and Transport, Sagir Abdulsalam, presented the award certificate to the project manager of CCECC Construction Company in Lokoja.
Abdulsalam, who represented the Commissioner for Works and Transport, Mohammed Ahovi Yusuf, stated that the road project would link the proposed ultra-modern airport to the state’s road network.
He added that the contract is expected to be completed within 18 months and forms part of Governor Ododo’s economic expansion plan aimed at improving connectivity, easing transportation, and attracting investment to the state.
“The dualisation will enhance the ease of doing business and facilitate the movement of goods, services, and people along the airport corridor,” Abdulsalam said.
He added, “Through the weekly Executive Council meeting, Governor Ododo approved the dualisation of the airport road, awarding it to the same construction company handling some of the state’s other projects.
“The project will be fully funded by the state government and is expected to stimulate economic growth and create employment opportunities during and after construction.”