By Charles Nwoke
The Ebonyi State Commissioner for Aviation and Transport Technology, Mrs Ngozi Obichukwu, has dismissed criticisms of the Chuba Okadigbo Airport circulating on social media, insisting that Governor Francis Nwifuru remains focused on completing his eight-year tenure without distraction.
Speaking to reporters in Abakaliki on Thursday, Obichukwu described the airport as the most efficient in the Southeast. She revealed that it had safely recorded over 45 flight take-offs and landings within six months of operations.
“No amount of social media criticism will stop the governor from completing his second term,” she said. “After his second term, he’s headed to Abuja. Whatever anyone writes online cannot reduce him from being governor.”
Obichukwu stressed the safety and functionality of the airport amid reports of regulatory bodies choosing alternative airports following the temporary closure of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu.
“The regulatory authorities have the constitutional right to select airports based on safety standards. That does not mean there’s any problem with Ebonyi’s airport. The Chuba Okadigbo Airport remains viable and fully operational,” she noted.
The commissioner commended Governor Nwifuru’s transparency and commitment to aviation development, stating that the state had successfully secured chartered flight operation permits, an achievement not replicated by peer airports.
“Since October, we’ve obtained chartered flight permits covering three operational phases. No other new airport has achieved that. Airlines are ready to operate here, but they must follow regulatory procedures. That’s the only delay,” she explained.
Obichukwu blamed federal regulatory agencies for the delayed issuance of operational booklets required to expand services, including nighttime flights.
“We’ve completed our part. The agencies, including NAMA, NIMET, AVSEC, and others, are now stepping in. Once we receive the final documents, full operations, including night landings, will commence,” she said.
She urged Ebonyi residents and Southeast stakeholders to support the governor’s efforts rather than criticize them, assuring that the airport would soon meet all national and international standards.
“This is a facility built to enhance safety and convenience. We cannot compromise that by rushing operations. If one airport is unavailable, others like Asaba, Owerri, or Anambra remain functional. There is no crisis in Ebonyi,” she concluded.
Obichukwu reaffirmed that Governor Nwifuru is committed to delivering a world-class airport that will soon operate beyond daytime hours, once the airfield lighting system is completed.
“The airport is already running from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., but with runway lights in place, Ebonyi will welcome flights even at midnight. Our team is ready. The airport will soon rank among the best in the country,” she added.
