By; ADAMA JOHN, Lokoja
After about two decades of inactivity, the Adogo Airstrip in Central Senatorial District of Kogi State may soon enjoy the status of an International Cargo Airport as Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo plans to change the moribund narrative of the strip in no distant time.
Governor Ododo’s plan, during the weekend, was disclosed, when he met with the management of the China Civil Engineering and Construction Company (CCECC) led by its Managing Director, David Wang at the Government House in Lokoja.
The proposed Kogi State Cargo Airport which will be executed on a Public-Private Partnership model by the Kogi State government and the CCECC is to begin with a feasibility study and consultation with stakeholders shortly and to be followed by project implementation committee to be constituted for the project’s completion.
Governor Ododo told the CCECC team that the Adogo Cargo Airport project is critical to the economic development of the state, stressing that Kogi State is endowed with huge agricultural potentials and mineral deposits in commercial quantities that require viable means of air transportation to markets within and outside Nigeria.
He expressed optimism that the completion of the proposed cargo airport in Adogo is a strategic project that will further advance the economic development agenda of his administration by linking the state to gateways of economic activities.
This can be achieved through intermodal transportation system like the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja and the Warri-Itakpe-Abuja rail line when completed.
Furthermore, the ongoing road projects including feeder roads in rural communities which are bearers of key agricultural and mineral resources would find true expression in economic viability when connected to the proposed cargo airport in the state.
In his response, CCECC’s Managing Director assured Governor Ododo of his commitment to deliver on the proposed project as soon as the feasibility study and other assessments, including required consultations are completed by the government.
