By Friday Idachaba, Lokoja
The Kogi State Government has taken a significant step toward actualising its proposed international airport with the award of a contract for a 9.1-kilometre dual carriageway linking the facility to the state’s road network.
The contract, awarded to CCECC Construction Company Nigeria Limited after a competitive bidding process involving five firms, underscores the state’s determination to accelerate infrastructure development around the planned airport in Zariagi.
Presenting the award letter in Lokoja on Wednesday, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works and Transport, Engr. Sagir Abdulsalam, said the project would ensure seamless access to the proposed ultra-modern airport while strengthening the state’s overall transport architecture.
Abdulsalam, who represented the Commissioner for Works and Transport, disclosed that the road is expected to be completed within 18 months.
He explained that the project forms a critical component of the economic expansion blueprint of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, aimed at enhancing connectivity, easing movement, and attracting investment into the state.
“The dualisation of the road will ease traffic flow, improve mobility and position Kogi as a more attractive destination for investors,” he said.
He added that the approval was granted during a recent State Executive Council meeting as part of a broader infrastructure drive to support the airport project.
The Permanent Secretary noted that the road would be fully funded by the state government and is expected to generate employment opportunities while stimulating economic activities during and after construction.
In his remarks, the Project Manager of the construction firm, Mr. Austin Qi, expressed appreciation to the state government for the confidence reposed in the company, assuring that the project would be delivered according to specifications and within schedule.
Meanwhile, the state government has commenced the payment of compensation to residents of Zariagi, Kabba Junction, and Irepeni communities affected by land acquisition for the airport project.
Affected persons, largely farmers, have been directed to report to the Kogi State Bureau of Lands from April 1, 2026, with valid means of identification, including National Identity Cards, Voter Cards, or Driver’s Licences, to process their claims.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Mr. Kingsley Femi Fanwo, described the contract award as a major milestone in the state’s infrastructure agenda.
He said the development reflects the administration’s readiness to deliver on the airport project, adding that funding would not pose a challenge.
“Today’s award is further proof that the Governor is committed to seeing the project through. We are prepared, and I can confirm that finance will not be a challenge,” he said.
Fanwo also linked the state’s confidence to broader federal support, noting that resources made available to sub-national governments under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu have strengthened project execution capacity.
He urged residents to protect public infrastructure, stressing that such investments are critical to long-term economic growth and development.
The road project is expected to serve as a key enabler for the proposed airport, positioning Kogi as an emerging hub for transportation and commerce in the region.