Kogi Airport Takes Off, Targets 250,000 Annual Passenger Traffic

Kogi Airport Takes Off, Targets 250,000 Annual Passenger Traffic

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja

Kogi State has set its sights on handling about 250,000 passengers annually as plans for the proposed Zariagi International Airport gather momentum, signalling a major push to position the state as a regional aviation and logistics hub.

Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo formally advanced the project on Wednesday with the handover of construction contracts to China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) and Gamji Nigeria Limited at a ceremony held at the Government House in Lokoja.

Describing the project as a cornerstone of his administration’s development agenda, Ododo said the airport would drive economic transformation and improve connectivity across the state and beyond.

“This airport is a legacy initiative that reflects our commitment to economic transformation and improved regional connectivity,” he said, adding that the contractors were selected through a rigorous procurement process and would receive full government support to deliver a world-class facility.

The governor also acknowledged the support of Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Federal Government for granting approval for the project, noting Kogi’s historical relevance in Nigeria’s aviation sector.

“One of the earliest aircraft landings in Nigeria occurred in Kogi State. The absence of a functional airport has remained a long-standing gap we are now determined to close,” Ododo stated.

He further explained that the airport is strategically positioned to serve as an alternative to the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, helping to ease congestion while opening up the state to investors and travellers.

“Our location; linking the northern and southern parts of Nigeria and connecting key commercial corridors makes Kogi an ideal hub for a modern aviation facility,” he added.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Transportation, Victor Atuluku, disclosed that the project underwent detailed planning and design within the 2025 fiscal year.

He said the development would include landside infrastructure, the terminal building, and airside facilities, with CCECC handling the core technical components such as the runway and terminal, while Gamji Nigeria Limited would be responsible for perimeter fencing.

“The airport will feature a 3.6-kilometre runway capable of accommodating large aircraft, including heavy cargo planes, and will sit on approximately 4,000 hectares with provision for future expansion,” Atuluku said.

“It is also expected to support cargo operations with dedicated warehouses and a cargo terminal, positioning Kogi as a regional logistics hub, with projected passenger traffic of about 250,000 annually,” he added.

Representatives of the contracting firms assured the state government of their readiness to deliver the project in line with international standards.

A representative of CCECC, Jun Don Pin, said, “We appreciate the confidence reposed in us and will ensure timely and quality delivery in line with global best practices.”

Similarly, Salau Mutalib commended the government’s vision, pledging strict adherence to specifications and project timelines.