Abia Airport Nsulu compensation enters its final phase as payments begin for affected landowners. Government outlines transparency measures and next steps. Read full story.
The Abia State Government has officially commenced the final phase of compensation payments to landowners and farmers affected by the acquisition of land for the proposed Abia Airport in Nsulu, Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area.
In a press statement signed by the Commissioner for Lands, Chaka I. Chukwumerije, the government disclosed that 1,025 hectares of land were acquired on behalf of the Federal Government in line with the provisions of 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 — all within Nsulu.
According to the statement, full compensation has already been paid to all verified landowners and farmers within the designated airport runway area, clearing the path for uninterrupted project work.
Payments to remaining claimants outside the runway zone officially began on February 23, 2026, marking what government officials describe as the final compensation phase.
Claimants have now been advised to report to the Ministry of Lands for documentation and processing of their payments based on the approved schedule.
The government revealed that in December 2025, it published and distributed the compensation list and claims survey to the communities for verification and transparency purposes.
Payments were deliberately paused to allow thorough vetting and reconciliation after concerns were raised during stakeholder engagements.
A reconciliation meeting led by Rt. Hon. Uzo Azubuike reviewed specific issues flagged by community representatives. Disputed claims, according to the government, are currently under investigation before any disbursement will be made.
Officials maintain that the pause was necessary to ensure fairness and prevent irregularities.
At a general town hall meeting held on February 18, 2026, community members were formally briefed on the compensation status and the commencement of the final payment stage.
Government representatives reiterated their commitment to a transparent, fair, and corruption-free compensation process.
The Commissioner emphasized that any proven cases of sharp practices would be addressed strictly in accordance with the law.
The Abia Airport project is regarded as a strategic infrastructure initiative expected to enhance connectivity, attract investment, and stimulate economic growth across the state.
With compensation for runway land now fully settled and the remaining payments underway, attention shifts to accelerated project implementation.
For residents of Nsulu and surrounding communities, the final compensation phase marks a significant turning point in a process that has drawn public scrutiny and sustained interest.
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