By Sophia Afolabi
The Anambra State Government has announced plans to construct a second airport in the state, less than four years after the commissioning of the Chinua Achebe International Cargo Airport, Umueri.
The new airport is to be sited in Ndikelionwu, Orumba North Local Government Area, as part of ongoing efforts by the Governor Charles Soludo administration to position Anambra as a modern, investment-friendly state.
The Managing Director of the Chinua Achebe International Cargo Airport, Mr. Martins Nwafor, disclosed the development during a site inspection visit to the area. Nwafor, who also chairs the newly constituted Airport and Aerotropolis Committee, said the project is in line with the administration’s vision to build a smart megacity and boost the state’s economic base.
According to him, the new airport will serve as a catalyst for economic transformation, combining aviation, industrial, commercial, and residential infrastructure to develop a fully integrated aerotropolis.
“The initiative is aimed at attracting investors and expanding industrialization across the state. With more than one airport, Anambra can fast-track economic growth and development,” Nwafor stated.
He explained that the inspection visit was to assess suitable and flyable locations for the development of the proposed airport and associated industrial facilities.
Community leaders in Ndikelionwu expressed appreciation to the state government for selecting their locality for the landmark project. Former President-General of the Ndikelionwu Welfare Association, Mr. Fabian Nwosu, and the Vice President of the association, Mr. Ifesinachi Onwurah, described the project as timely and beneficial, especially in terms of employment opportunities and infrastructure development.
They assured the government of their community’s support toward the successful execution of the project.
The government delegation also included top officials such as the Managing Director of the Anambra State Solid Minerals Development Company Limited, Prof. Charles Ofoegbu; Senior Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, AVM Ben Chiobi (rtd); and architect and founder of Sliding Towers, Mr. Chukwudi Ezenwa.
Geologists and geophysicists from the Anambra State Solid Minerals Development Company were also on hand to commence mapping and terrain assessment.
The airport project is part of Governor Soludo’s broader infrastructural development plan, which focuses on transforming Anambra into a globally competitive economy driven by innovation, connectivity, and sustainable growth.
