The Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, is scheduled to visit Abia State next week to inaugurate the commencement of the Abia Airport project.

The Abia State Government announced this on Monday in Umuahia, noting that the project aligns with the current administration?s infrastructure agenda.

Speaking to journalists after this week?s State Executive Council meeting, chaired by Governor Alex Otti, the Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, stated that, ?The infrastructural agenda of the state government will receive a significant boost as the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, joins Governor Alex Otti to flag off the construction of the Abia Airport project next week.?

Kanu further explained, ?Initially, this was not a priority project for the state government. However, when the federal government decided to build an airstrip in Abia State,

Governor Alex Otti partnered with the federal government to convert the airstrip into a full airport project. This collaboration will result in the construction of a runway capable of accommodating larger aircraft once completed.?

Additionally, Kanu revealed that Governor Otti has approved the construction of 20 smart schools across Abia?s 17 local government areas. This initiative is part of the administration?s broader vision to empower the education sector. It complements the ongoing renovation of schools across the state, aimed at preparing students to compete globally as 21st-century learners.

Kanu also emphasised the state government?s commitment to providing free education up to the junior secondary school level. A law enforcing mandatory school attendance will take effect on 1 January 2025, with strict compliance expected. The Governor has directed the Commissioner for Education to ensure the full implementation of this policy.

On public health, Kanu stated that there are no recorded cases of the new COVID-19 variant, XEC, in the state. He advised residents to maintain proper hygiene and remain vigilant.

He further disclosed that Abia has been declared free of M-pox, diphtheria, Lassa fever, and cholera. The Emergency Operations Centre at the Abia State Insurance building has been handed over to the Ministry of Health to serve as the state?s coordinating hub for emergency responses to disease outbreaks and other public health crises.

Kanu assured residents and visitors of adequate security during the festive season, promising a peaceful and secure yuletide.

In a related development, the Commissioner for Basic Education, Goodluck Ubochi, explained that the smart schools will initially be implemented in secondary schools, utilising existing structures. (The PUNCH)

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