Katsina Hands Over 76.4 Hectares of Land to FG for Airport Expansion

Francis Sardauna in Katsina

The Katsina State Government has handed over 76.4 hectares of land to the federal government for the upgrade and expansion of the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua International Airport, Katsina.

Speaking during the handing over ceremony at the airport, the state Head of Civil Service, Mr. Usman Isyaku, said the state government paid N300 million compensation to land owners affected by the projects.

There are eight projects to be executed at the airport, some of which include: the expansion of the existing airport APRON, fire truck building, new terminal, cargo terminal, and fire truck maintenance and refurbishment.

Isyaku explained that the funds were paid by the state government to 421 residents of the airport community whose lands are to be used for the upgrade and expansion of the airport.

The head of civil service lauded Governor Dikko Umaru Radda for his foresight, commitment and determination for the speedy actualisation of the project, which according to him, would provide more job opportunities for unemployed youths.

He said: “His Excellency, Governor Dikko Umaru Radda has committed over N300 million on the payment of compensation to about 421 people whose lands are to be used for the expansion of the airport.”

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace, Dr. Emmanuel Meribole, said eight projects were awarded last year by the federal government to the airport but lack of land hampered immediate execution.

Meribole, represented by the Director, Aerodrome Development Department of the Ministry, Clement Olayinka, however, applauded the state government for providing the land for the execution of the projects.

Describing the gesture as another milestone in the history of the aviation industry, Meribole said: “The only thing that is outstanding now is the certificate of occupancy which the state has promised to make available very soon.”

He explained that the federal government delegation was in the state to inspect the 76.4 hectares of land for immediate commencement of the projects at the airport.

On his part, the state Commissioner for Land and Physical Planning, Dr. Faisal Umar, said 76.4 hectares of land was acquired by the state government for the expansion of the projects, and compensation was paid within seven days.