Ebonyi State Commissioner for Aviation and Transport Technology, Mrs. Ngozi Obichukwu, has said critics of the Chuba Okadigbo International Airport and social media attacks can stop Governor Francis Nwifuru’s re-election in 2027.
Speaking during a media briefing in Abakaliki, Obichukwu declared that Governor Nwifuru remains firmly in control and enjoys overwhelming support from the people. According to her, attempts by critics to discredit the governor’s performance—especially regarding the airport project—will fail.
“Governor Nwifuru is not only completing his first term with impact, but he’s also set to return for a second term. And after that, he’s heading to Abuja. Social media attacks cannot bring him down—they only discredit the attackers,” she stated.
She went on to describe the Chuba Okadigbo Airport as the most efficient and promising airport in the entire South East, noting that in less than six months of operation, it has recorded at least 45 successful flights without any technical hitches.
While reacting to the temporary closure of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu and the regulatory bodies’ decision to divert traffic, Obichukwu emphasized that such decisions lie solely with the aviation authorities. She clarified that Chuba Okadigbo Airport is not facing any issues, contrary to claims making rounds on social media.
“Our airport is safe, secure, and fully compliant with all regulatory expectations. The delay in full commercial operations is due to the regulatory bodies finalizing critical documentation—not due to any failure on our part,” she explained.
Obichukwu commended Governor Nwifuru for his strategic vision and transparency, especially for securing chartered flight operation permits ahead of peer airports in the region. She revealed that Ebonyi has already obtained two chartered flight permits covering October 2024 to July 2025—something other newly developed airports are still struggling to achieve.
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She urged residents and stakeholders across the South East to be patient and supportive, stressing that air travel is a regulated business where due process must be followed. “Airlines are ready to fly, but they must comply with regulations. The governor has done his part; now it’s up to the regulators to finish theirs,” she said.
The Commissioner also revealed that once the runway lighting project is completed, night flights will commence, making the airport fully operational 24/7.
“With runway airfield lighting underway, we’ll soon begin handling international, local, chartered, and commercial flights even at midnight. Right now, operations run from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., but that will soon change,” Obichukwu added.
She maintained that the governor’s commitment to aviation development is unwavering and urged the people to ignore naysayers and support the administration’s efforts.
“Ebonyi State is not lagging behind. We are setting the pace. The Chuba Okadigbo International Airport is a legacy project that will put Ebonyi on the global map,” she concluded.
