The Federal Executive Council (FEC), has approved the construction of an airstrip in Gboko, Benue, to strengthen security operations, humanitarian services and emergency response across the North-Central region.
Mr Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development disclosed this on Monday while briefing State House correspondents, after the FEC meeting presided over by President Bola Tinubu at the State House.
He said that the contract was awarded to CCECC Nigeria Ltd. at a cost of N34.4 billion.
“We sought Council’s approval for the construction and development of the Gboko airstrip in Benue State, and it was graciously approved by Council,” he said.
Keyamo said Gboko occupies a strategic position because of its agricultural importance and growing security concerns.
“Gboko serves as an important hub for agricultural activity around the Middle Belt and for security agencies confronting challenges in that axis.
“The airstrip will provide an operational base for security agencies responding to emerging threats in the region.
“Security agencies have had to search for airstrips and operational bases to confront the security challenges we are facing around that axis,” he said.
The minister added that the facility would also support humanitarian operations and emergency medical services.
“It will also serve as a base for humanitarian activities, humanitarian services and medical emergency services.”
That is how important the area is,” he said.
Keyamo said the project reflected the Federal Government’s commitment to addressing security and development challenges through critical infrastructure.