Abuja second runway: Wike set to pay N825m compensation to communities

The Minister, Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike has announced his readiness to pay the sum of N825 million as compensation to affected communities as a way of supporting the commencement and quick completion of the second runway of the Nnamdi Azikwe International Airport, Abuja.

The Minister made the announcement at a stakeholders meeting between the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, and the Federal Capital Development Authority on Tuesday in Abuja at the F.C.T conference Room, Abuja.

Wike said: “I want to identify myself with the community, If there is anything I can do to make you happy I will make it alone.”

He urged all stakeholders to support the second runway project, adding that the compensation of to the communities will commence immediately.

In his remarks, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, expressed optimism of the quick completion of the runway with the resolution reached by all parties concerned.

Keyamo noted that the second runway ought to have been commissioned by sometime in June or July 2023 but couldnt due to some hindrances.

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“We haven’t mobilized yet to the site because of unresolved issues of compensation. The issues around compensation by law does not concern the Ministry of Aviation and the humongous demand by the communities is not achievable and would set a bad precedent.”

He assured the communities of the social corporate responsibility they stand to enjoy along with the commencement of the project and explained that the project will benefit the communities in terms of economic activities as
efforts are being made to resolve all issues delaying the take-off of Abuja’s second runway by communities affected by the project.

The Signing of the MoU on behalf of the Federal Government was by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Dr Emmanuel Meribole and the Permanent Secretary, Federal Capital Territory Administration, Mr. Olusade Adesola while Emir of Jiwa, Alh. Idris Musa and some village and district heads signed on behalf of the communities.