The Federal Government of Nigeria has given the green light for the development and construction of the proposed King Amachree Airport in Elem Ifoko, Degema Local Government Area of Rivers State. This approval was conveyed in a letter dated October 26, 2026, with reference number FMA/ADD/402/S.101/C.1/1/88, addressed to Prince Tonye Princewill, Executive Director of Royal Fouche Services Limited. The letter outlined several conditions that must be met before the project can proceed.
The project proponents are required to prepare and submit a comprehensive airport master plan that details the proposed facilities, construction phases, and associated infrastructure. They must also comply with all applicable regulations of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and relevant environmental laws and standards. This includes conducting an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and other necessary environmental studies, as well as paying all applicable statutory fees.
A detailed topographical and obstacle survey referenced to the World Geodetic System 1984 (WGS-84) is also required. Additionally, a comprehensive geotechnical investigation must be conducted to establish the site's subsurface conditions, soil-bearing capacity, groundwater characteristics, and suitability for the proposed airport infrastructure. These studies will help ensure that the airport is built on a solid foundation and can operate safely.
The project developers must also undertake detailed hydrological, hydraulic, and drainage studies to evaluate potential flooding, tidal influences, seasonal water movements, and stormwater management challenges at the proposed site. The letter specifically addressed a canal traversing the proposed airport location, directing the developers to submit an engineering assessment to determine the most appropriate solution.
The Federal Government has also made the provision of reliable, all-weather road access to the airport a condition for the project. This access will be necessary to facilitate construction, airport operations, emergency response, and passenger movement. The Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development and its relevant agencies will be involved throughout all stages of the airport's development to provide technical oversight.
The involvement of the Ministry and its agencies will ensure compliance with the Standards and Recommended Practices of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig.CARs), and other applicable statutory and regulatory requirements. The approval marks a significant step towards the proposed establishment of the King Amachree Airport in Degema, although the project remains subject to the fulfilment of the conditions specified by the Federal Government.
The King Amachree Airport project has been in the works for some time, and the Federal Government's approval is a major milestone. However, the project proponents must now work to meet the conditions outlined in the approval letter. If they are able to do so, the airport could become a reality and provide a new transportation hub for the region.
Key points
- The Federal Government has approved the King Amachree Airport project in Rivers State, subject to regulatory, environmental, and engineering requirements.
- The project proponents must prepare and submit a comprehensive airport master plan and comply with NCAA regulations and environmental laws.
- The Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development will provide technical oversight to ensure compliance with ICAO and Nig.CARs standards.
