Ebonyi government clears up confusion, says Chuba Okadigbo airport is not an event center

The Ebonyi State Commissioner for Aviation and Transport Technology, Dr. Mrs. Ngozi Obichukwu, has denied reports claiming that the Chuba Okadigbo International Airport has been turned into an event center. On Monday, January 20, she dismissed the rumors as “unfounded,” stressing that the airport is still functioning as intended, with recent flights for both domestic and international destinations.

Obichukwu explained that the airport had recently been used for the departure of over 204 students who received overseas scholarships. The students boarded flights to continue their education abroad, and the event was part of a flag-off ceremony hosted by Governor Francis Nwifuru.

She urged citizens to ignore the fake news, calling it the work of those trying to damage the reputation of the state. “The Chuba Okadigbo International Airport has since December recorded over 22 flight operations, and we will continue to operate,” Obichukwu said.

The commissioner also clarified that the flag-off ceremony for the scholarship students took place at the airport because it allowed the students to board their flights immediately. She defended the decision, stating that this was a practical way to ensure the students’ smooth departure.

“The flag-off ceremony was at the airport to help students board their flights directly. It’s not an event center, and the ceremony was held there out of convenience, not to turn the airport into something else,” she explained.

Obichukwu emphasized that the governor’s presence at the airport to send the students off was a gesture of humility, showing his support for the students as they embarked on their academic journey.

She urged citizens of Ebonyi State and the South-East region to continue using the airport, reassuring them that their safety is a top priority.