Construction at Abuja’s second runway of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA) is set to take off as the federal government has agreed to pay N825m compensation to communities affected by the project.
This was revealed after a meeting between the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development and the Federal Capital Development Authority held in Abuja on Tuesday.
Spokesperson of the ministry, Odutayo Oluseyi said arising from a resolution, issued at the end of the meeting, Hon. Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo said “The second runway ought to have been commissioned by now, sometime in June or July 2023 but we have not mobilized yet to the site because of unresolved issues of compensation”.
He stated that the issues around compensation by law does not concern the Ministry of Aviation and that the humongous demand by the communities is not achievable and would set a bad precedent.
He however expressed optimism of quick completion of the project since a resolution has been reached by all parties.
He assured the communities of the social corporate responsibility they stand to enjoy along with the commencement of the project and explained that the project will benefit the communities in terms of economic activities.
Minister, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike while announcing the resolutions at the end of the stakeholder meeting said “I want to identify myself with the community, If there is anything I can do to make you happy, I will make it alone”.
He urged all stakeholders to support the second runway project and assured all that the compensation of N825,819,119.43 to the communities will commence immediately.
The signing of the MoU on behalf of the federal government was by the permanent secretary, Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Dr Emmanuel Meribole and the permanent secretary, Federal Capital Territory Administration, Mr. Olusade Adesola while Emir of Jiwa, Alh. Idris Musa and some village and district heads signed on behalf of the communities.