Wike resolves dispute over Abuja Airport 2nd runway

 

Federal Capital Territory FCT minister, Nyesom Wike has resolved the months-long dispute regarding the establishment of a second runway for the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

The Federal Executive Council, FEC, had in March 2022 approved the second runway, with the project broken into four components. The project was also meant for commissioning by June of 2023.

However, part of the Jiwa Community which hosts the runway, protested their eviction from their ancestral lands, demanding compensation from government.

At a troubleshooting parley with members of the community and other stakeholders on Tuesday, Wike said he understood their pains and would do all in his power to get them their dues.

Consequently, he directed the immediate payment of N825 million in compensation to the affected land owners.

Speaking on the resolutions of the meeting, Wike said; “We have been able to resolve amicably with the community, and contractors will now move to site.

“The FCT through the Federal Capital Development Authority FCDA will release the money approved for compensation and settlement of those who are there. The total value is N825.82 million for the compensation and resettlement.

“As part of the incentives to the community, 12 immediate employment from the Ministry of Aviation and its agencies as the case maybe, and 10 from the Federal Capital Territory Administration for the Jiwa community.

“We are going to construct Tunga Madaki Bridge, which we will put in the 2024 budget, with a 5km road. We are going to provide a modern healthcare facility for the community.

“The Permanent Secretaries from the Ministry of Aviation and that of the FCTA, His Royal Highness (the Sarkin Jiwa), AMAC Chairman, and the Commissioner, Public Complaints Commission (FCT) will sign the agreement reached between government and Jiwa Community, and if that is done today, by tomorrow or next, the moment the money gets to them, the contractors will no longer delay, as they have to move to the site immediately and commence work. So, the second runway has come to stay.

Vanguard,