Former President Goodluck Jonathan on Friday utilized the Chuba Okadigbo International Airport in Onueke, Ebonyi state, as he traveled to an engagement in Boki Local Government Area of Cross River state. Jonathan arrived at the airport at about 8am aboard a private jet, accompanied by members of his entourage, including Bayelsa state deputy governor, Dr Peter Akpeh. The former president was received by deputy governor Patricia Obila on behalf of the Ebonyi state government.
The Ebonyi state government has described Jonathan's use of the airport as a demonstration of confidence in the facility. The government renewed its appeal to airlines, private aircraft operators, corporate organisations, and other air users to patronise the airport. This appeal comes as the state seeks to maximise the economic and developmental benefits of the airport.
Commissioner for Information and State Orientation, Chief Ikeuwa Omebeh, emphasized the importance of sustained patronage for the airport's benefits to be fully realised. According to him, the facility provides a platform for improved connectivity, investment, tourism, business activities, and the movement of people and goods into and out of Ebonyi state.
Following the reception, Obila personally escorted Jonathan and his entourage to Boki, where the former president was scheduled to attend a function. The event was a significant engagement in the region, highlighting the airport's potential to facilitate movement and connectivity.
Jonathan's visit to Ebonyi state includes a dinner at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Lodge, Government House, Abakaliki, scheduled for later in the day. He is expected to return to the Chuba Okadigbo International Airport for his onward journey to Bayelsa state.
The state government reiterated its commitment to the continued development and utilisation of the airport as a major aviation gateway for Ebonyi state and the wider region. This commitment is aimed at enhancing the airport's capacity to contribute to the state's economic growth and development.
The use of the Chuba Okadigbo International Airport by prominent figures such as Jonathan is seen as a positive development for Ebonyi state's aviation sector. It highlights the airport's potential to serve as a significant hub for air travel in the region, providing improved connectivity and facilitating the movement of people and goods.
Key points
- The Ebonyi state government is keen on increasing patronage of the Chuba Okadigbo International Airport to maximise its economic benefits.
- Former President Goodluck Jonathan's use of the airport demonstrates confidence in the facility's operations and services.
- The airport is expected to play a major role in Ebonyi state's economic growth and development as a major aviation gateway.
