Moment Ebonyi North Senator called for relocation of residents in structures near Abuja airport

Senator Onyekachi Nwebonyi ( Ebonyi North) has urged the Federal Government to relocate residents living in aging and dilapidated buildings near the Abuja International Airport.

The call was made in a now-trending video during the last plenary.

Nwebonyi, who serves as the Deputy Chief Whip of the Senate, emphasised the need for a comprehensive infrastructural overhaul in the airport’s surrounding areas.

He expressed strong support for the ongoing transformation of the Federal Capital Territory being spearheaded by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, noting that the project has the backing of the Senate.

According to him, clearing outdated structures and relocating occupants is essential to achieving the aesthetic and developmental goals of the capital city.

“I want the FCT Minister to extend his development of the FCT within the surroundings of Abuja Airport. If you are descending into the airport, the type of infrastructure within the environs does not represent a good image of Nigeria, and I think that the FCT minister should capture that in his next budget to either relocate the habitats or renew the area, because the buildings in the community are the mirror of the country.

“As you descend into the Abuja airport, if you consider the view, you will agree with me that it is an eyesore and doesn’t give a good image of the nation. I urge all my colleagues to support this important bill that will transform the country.”

In response, Senate President Godswill Akpabio disagreed with the proposal to relocate residents living in communities around the airport.

He drew a comparison to his home state of Akwa Ibom, noting that, unlike Abuja, the predominant features there are rivers rather than residential settlements near airport facilities.

“This community is some people’s village. The image of the nation does not start from where you are descending. When you are descending in my own state (Akwa Ibom), the things you will see are creeks and water. Are you saying that we should relocate that so it won’t spoil your eyes?” [CONTINUE READING HERE]>>>>>