The Anambra State Government has given reasons why the State needs a second Airport, explaining that the project is part of a long term vision to prepare for the state’s projected population and economic growth.
The explanation became necessary following criticisms on social media by some residents and commentators who have continued to question the need for another airport in Anambra State.
In his reaction during an interview in Awka, the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Arc. Okey Ezeobi, dismissed concerns that the proposed second airport would amount to a waste of public resources.
According to the Commissioner, Anambra is experiencing significant growth in population, economic activities and urban development, making long term infrastructure planning necessary.
He explained that several major cities around the world operate multiple airports to meet growing passenger traffic and economic demands, adding that projections under the Anambra State Vision 2070 indicate that the state could require as many as three airports by the year 2070.
Arc. Ezeobi said the proposed second airport should therefore be viewed within the context of future planning rather than only the immediate needs of the state.
He noted that the state is already witnessing rapid development, with communities expanding and more people investing in housing, businesses and industries.
The Commissioner warned that failure to secure land and plan ahead for critical infrastructure could limit Anambra’s future growth and create serious challenges for future generations.
He maintained that Soludo administration is working with the long term projections contained in the Anambra State Vision 2070 document, which anticipates significant population growth and increased demand for transportation infrastructure.
The proposed airport, he explained, is therefore part of a broader strategy to position Anambra for sustainable development, improve connectivity and accommodate the future needs of a rapidly growing population.
The government argued that the debate over the second airport should be viewed from the perspective of long term development planning and the need to prepare Anambra for the opportunities and challenges that will come with projected growth by 2070.
