Emmanuel Clement
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has officially handed over the contract for the construction of the proposed Zariagi International Airport to China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation and Gamji Nigeria Limited, in a major step toward transforming Kogi State into a key aviation and economic hub.
The presentation of the contract award letters took place at the Government House in Lokoja, marking a significant milestone in the state’s ongoing infrastructural development drive.
The ceremony attracted top government officials, stakeholders, and international partners, underscoring the strategic importance of the airport project to the state’s future.
Describing the initiative as a legacy project, Governor Ododo said it reflects his administration’s commitment to boosting economic growth, enhancing connectivity, and promoting sustainable development.
He noted that the selection of the contractors followed a transparent and rigorous procurement process, while assuring them of full government support to deliver a world-class aviation facility.
The governor also expressed appreciation to Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Federal Government for granting the necessary approvals for the project.
He recalled Kogi’s early place in Nigeria’s aviation history, noting that one of the country’s earliest aircraft landings occurred within the state, making the absence of a functional airport a long-standing gap his administration is determined to address.
Ododo explained that the proposed airport would serve as a strategic alternative to the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, helping to ease congestion while improving access for investors, tourists, and business travelers.
He emphasized that Kogi’s central location linking northern and southern Nigeria positions it as an ideal hub for such a project.
According to him, the airport is expected to unlock significant economic opportunities in sectors such as solid minerals, agriculture, and commerce, while also creating thousands of jobs for residents.
Earlier,the Commissioner for Transportation, Victor Atuluku, disclosed that the project underwent extensive planning and design during the 2025 fiscal year.
He stated that the development would include landside infrastructure, a modern terminal building, and advanced airside facilities.
He added that CCECC would handle the core construction work, including the runway and terminal, while Gamji Nigeria Limited would be responsible for perimeter fencing.
Providing further details, Atuluku revealed that the airport would feature a 3.6-kilometre runway capable of accommodating large aircraft, including heavy cargo planes.
The project will cover approximately 4,000 hectares of land, with provisions for future expansion.
He further noted that the facility would include cargo terminals and warehouses, positioning Kogi as a regional logistics hub with an estimated annual passenger capacity of about 250,000.
In their separate remarks, representatives of the contracting firms reaffirmed their commitment to delivering the project to global standards.
Zhou Dongping expressed appreciation to the Kogi State Government and assured timely execution, while Salau Mutalib pledged adherence to quality and safety standards.
Investigator news gathered that the official handover signals the commencement of a project widely regarded by stakeholders as a transformative development for Kogi State.