Femi Folaranmi, Yenagoa
The leaders of Amassoma community in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State have drummed support for Bayelsa State Government over the Bayelsa Airport project in the area.
According to them, the ongoing international airport billed for completion, in August, this year, would provide gainful employment to Bayelsans, accelerate economic prosperity, and promote peace and stability of the state and the region.
A press statement signed by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Francis Ottah Agbo, stated that the community leaders led by the Ebenanaowei of Ogboin Clan, King Oweipa Jones Ene described the citing of the project in Amassoma community as phenomenal and heart warming
King Jones-Ere who was quoted to have called on the Federal Government to fulfill its part of the contractual obligation towards the airport project, assured the state government of the people’s commitment to protect the project.
His words, “Words are not enough to describe my joy that we are hosting a powerful, gigantic and modern airport. We will do everything to support and protect this airport and we are positive about its expansion.”
Also in his remarks, the Amananaowei of Amassoma Community, Major Graham Naingba (Rtd), expressed delight that, the airport project would go a long way in reducing the unemployment rate in the state as well as provide training for the youths.
Responding to questions, the Commissioner for Lands and Survey, Hon. Kuroakegha Dorgu, announced the approval of N200 million by the state government as compensation to the land owners, assuring that, the money would be paid by the end of this month.
Speaking, the Director, Bayelsa Airlines, Mrs. Elizabeth Daitare-Akpama, gave an assurance that the project would be completed by the end of August this year.
Mrs. Daitare-Akpama who said the facilities at the airport have reached advanced stages of completion, said the terminal building has the capacity to accommodate 500 passengers.
She explained that, the 3.5 kilometer runway has reached 75 per cent completion, while the taxi park facility is about 95 percent completed, noting that, the state government has also created space for expansion of the project.