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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially flagged off the construction of the Kogi International Cargo Airport in Zariagi, Adavi Local Government Area of Kogi State, describing the project as a major step towards opening the state to global investment, trade and economic opportunities.
The President, represented by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, performed the groundbreaking ceremony on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, commending Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for his vision and commitment to infrastructure development.
The groundbreaking ceremony marks the commencement of the airport project, which the Kogi State Government says will strengthen connectivity, attract investments and create employment opportunities.
Speaking at the ceremony, Keyamo described the project as a historic milestone, noting that it would place Zariagi and Kogi State on the global aviation map.
He said the airport initiative reflected the vision of Governor Ododo and the economic policies of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, particularly the additional financial capacity available to state governments following the Federal Government’s economic reforms.
The minister also dismissed concerns over the rationale for establishing an airport in the state, arguing that aviation infrastructure could serve as a catalyst for economic growth by attracting businesses, investments and other supporting developments.
According to him, the project has the potential to generate between 2,000 and 3,000 jobs for residents of Kogi State.
In his address, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo described the Kogi International Cargo Airport as a strategic investment designed to transform the state’s geographical advantage into lasting economic strength.
He said Kogi’s location at the confluence of the Niger and Benue rivers, coupled with its proximity to several states and the Federal Capital Territory, gives it significant potential as a centre for transportation, trade, logistics and investment.
The governor explained that the airport would improve access to national and international markets, particularly for agricultural producers, agro-processors and businesses operating in the state.
He identified agriculture, solid minerals, manufacturing, hospitality, tourism and commerce as sectors expected to benefit from the project.
Ododo also highlighted Kogi’s agricultural and mineral resources, including cashew, cassava, iron ore, limestone, gold, marble and lithium, noting that improved transportation infrastructure would support investment and commercial activities.
He acknowledged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s support for the project, describing the Federal Government’s partnership with the state as important to translating the airport vision into reality.
The governor further disclosed that the airport forms part of his administration’s broader development agenda, which includes the Lokoja Ultra-Modern Market, the proposed Ajaokuta Free Trade Zone, agro-processing initiatives and ongoing road infrastructure projects.
Speaking at the ceremony, the CCECC representative, Zhou Dongping, expressed appreciation to Governor Ododo and his administration for the confidence reposed in the company to execute the project.
He described the commencement of construction as a significant milestone in the development of Kogi State, noting that the state’s strategic geographical position and potential in agriculture, mining, industry and commerce make the airport an important infrastructure investment.
According to him, upon completion, the facility will improve regional connectivity, facilitate business activities, attract new investments, create employment opportunities and contribute to the long-term economic development of the state.
Zhou assured the governor, the Aviation Minister and the people of Kogi State that CCECC would deploy its experience and technical expertise to deliver the project, while acknowledging the responsibility entrusted to the company.
Also speaking, the Kogi State Commissioner for Works charged CCECC to ensure that the airport project meets global construction standards.
He emphasised quality, speed and strict adherence to specifications, adding that the ministry would deploy resident engineers to monitor construction activities around the clock.
The commissioner also appreciated the Zariagi host community for making their ancestral land available for the project, urging residents to protect the facility and provide a peaceful environment for construction workers.
He noted that the project would generate direct and indirect employment opportunities for residents of the state.
The Kogi International Cargo Airport is expected to serve as a strategic aviation gateway, supporting trade, investment, agricultural exports and broader economic development across the state.
