The newly re-upgraded Asaba International Airport has since October 8th, 2018 witnessed increased commercial flights in and out-bound Lagos-Asaba-Abuja round trips and shall become one of the busiest hub on or before January 2019.
Executive Assistant to the Governor of Delta State on Communications and founding Managing Director of PPK Aviation Interlational, Dr Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe disclosed in a statement that Asaba Airport under Okowa administration shall attract all major domestic airlines in the country; as a result of the world class facilities that have been put in place to make the airport one of the best in the country.
He noted that Okowa administration met the airport in an embarrassing situation wherein it was downgraded by federal aviation authorities as a result of the bad runway and other sub-standard facilities installed by the contractor that was engaged by the precious administration, pointing out that the said contractor – ULO Consultants Ltd owned by Chief Chris Okpuno, was rusticated and the contract revoked.
Okowa’s EA Communications further disclosed that the contract was later re-awarded to a responsible corporate citizen, Setraco Nigeria, and was able to deliver within agreed time frame; resulting in the upgrade and re-branding of the Asaba Airport, adding that Peace Airlines made her “welcome back” maiden flight into Asaba on 8th October this year as a proof that the facility is now fit and certified to accommodate wide-bodied aircraft like any other international airport around the world.
Oghenesivbe, who was also the Chief Executive Officer of Aeroflight Corporate Travels Ltd, before he was called to Bar, further asserted that the socioeconomic implication of the resumption of full scale commercial flights in and out of Asaba airport is that more jobs are already being created, government will generate more revenue through airport tax, overnight parking, airport advertising services as well as increased turnover for hoteliers, airport taxi operators and grand staff doing business at the airport.
“The travelling public are now to enjoy variety of air services as more domestic airlines have signified their interest to fly in and out of Asaba from different local and international airports.
“His Excellency the Governor of Delta State, is excited about the return of Air Peace Airlines and other Airlines have been earmarked to resume flights into Asaba Airport, in the near future.
“Okowa administration remain focused and determined to fulfill all electoral promises made to Deltans in 2015, which is why Senator Dr Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa and his team, have been working round the clock. The governor shall continue to manage the state financial resources in the most pruduent and responsible manner for the benefit of all Deltans.
“Asaba Airport shall soon become a major hub in the country as a result of her strategic location, serving Delta and neighbouring South-East states.
“Recently, the Vice President, Prof Yemi Osinbajo presidential executive jet flew into Asaba Airport and was received on arrival by Gov Okowa. The VP was in Delta to attend the 2018 Guild of Editors annual event.
“Cargo Airplane shall soon resume flights into Asaba Airport, making it more convinient and cheaper for South-East business people and importers to fly their products and goods into Asaba and spend little for haulage from Asaba Airport to any of the South-East states.
“Gov Okowa stands out as a consistent promise keeper and a leader par excellence in terms of service delivery, commitment towards good governance and genuine intentions to leave an enduring legacy behind at the completion of his two tenure on May 29, 2023,” Oghenesivbe added.
