The Anambra State Government has announced plans to construct another airport in Ndikelionwu, Orumba North Local Government Area, less than four years after the inauguration of the Chinua Achebe International Cargo Airport in Umeri.
The move, according to government officials, is part of a broader strategy to transform Anambra into a smart megacity and attract large-scale investment into the state.
Background: Chinua Achebe International Cargo Airport
The first airport project was launched on April 11, 2017, with construction completed in 2020. It was officially inaugurated by former Governor Willie Obiano on October 30, 2021. Today, the airport stands as a vital cargo and passenger hub for Southeast Nigeria.
Building on that momentum, the state government believes a second airport will fast-track industrialisation and unlock untapped opportunities in the aviation and logistics sector.
Why a Second Airport?
Mr. Martins Nwafor, Managing Director of Chinua Achebe Cargo International Airport and Chairman of the newly formed Airport and Aerotropolis Committee, explained the rationale behind the project during an inspection visit to Orumba North.
According to him, the new airport will be complemented by an industrial park and aerotropolis—a planned city built around aviation facilities.
“The project will attract massive investment by combining aviation infrastructure with commercial, residential, and logistics facilities to create a dynamic airport-driven city,” Nwafor stated.
He added that having more than one airport will improve industrialisation, trade, and overall economic growth across Anambra State.
Community Support for the Project
Leaders of the Ndikelionwu community expressed gratitude to the state government for choosing their locality for the project.
- Fabian Nwosu, former President-General of the Ndikelionwu Welfare Association,
- Ifesinachi Onwurah, Vice President of the Association,
both pledged community support and highlighted the job opportunities and development the project would bring.
Key Officials and Experts at the Inspection Visit
The inspection visit included several senior government officials and experts, such as:
- Prof. Charles Ofoegbu, Managing Director, Anambra State Solid Minerals Development Company Limited.
- Retired AVM Ben Chiobi, Senior Special Adviser on Security to the Governor.
- Mr. Chukwudi Ezenwa, Architect and Founder of Sliding Towers.
Geologists and geophysicists from the Anambra State Solid Minerals Development Company were also present to conduct mapping and site evaluation.
Economic Impact: A Game Changer for Anambra
The planned airport and industrial park are expected to:
- Boost foreign and local investment in aviation and logistics.
- Create thousands of direct and indirect jobs.
- Position Anambra as a major trade and industrial hub in Southeast Nigeria.
- Enhance connectivity for businesses, residents, and tourists.
Nwafor described the project as a game changer, noting that it would unlock previously untapped economic opportunities and accelerate the state’s transformation into a modern megacity.
