The Abia State Government has announced the commencement of the final phase of compensation payments to landowners and farmers affected by the proposed Abia Airport project in Nsulu, Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area.
In a press statement signed by the Commissioner for Lands, Hon. Chaka I. Chukwumerije, the government disclosed that 1,025 hectares of land were acquired on behalf of the Federal Government in line with the Land Use Act of 1978 for the overriding public purpose of developing the Abia Airport.
The affected communities include Umuala, Umuomainta, Umuezeukwu, Umuode, Umuosu and Ubaha in Nsulu.
According to the statement, full compensation has already been paid to all landowners and farmers within the designated airport runway area, thereby enabling construction work to proceed. Payment to remaining claimants outside the runway corridor officially began on February 23, 2026.
The government stated that in a bid to ensure transparency and accountability, the compensation list and claims survey were published and shared with the affected communities in December 2025 for verification and vetting. It added that payments were temporarily paused to allow for the review process.
Concerns raised during a reconciliation meeting with community representatives led by Rt. Hon. Uzo Azubuike were carefully examined, with authorities noting that disputed claims are currently under investigation before any further disbursement.
A general town hall meeting was also held on February 18, 2026, to brief stakeholders and formally announce the final payment phase. During the meeting, the government reassured residents that compensation would be paid in full and reaffirmed its commitment to a transparent and fair process.
The statement emphasized the administration’s zero tolerance for corruption, warning that any proven cases of sharp practices would be handled strictly in accordance with the law.
Affected claimants have been advised to report to the Ministry of Lands for proper documentation and collection of their full compensation as scheduled.
