Mr. Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, has announced that efforts are underway to elevate Osubi Airport to meet international standards.
Keyamo shared this information during the inauguration of a newly-built police station at Osubi Airport, located in the Okpe Local Government Area of Delta State.
His message was conveyed by his Special Adviser on Political Matters, Mr. Voke Oshasha, who also presided over the inauguration of a fuel depot at the airport.
While addressing the media after the ceremony, Keyamo emphasized that these developments will significantly improve the safety and security of the airport. He commended Osubi Airport Manager, Mr. Winston Egwuatu, for adhering to safety protocols at Nigerian airports, stating, “This initiative will enhance the safety of passengers at the airport and within the Osubi community.”
Keyamo further stated, “We are actively working on the expansion of Osubi Airport to meet international standards; this is a process in motion.”
Earlier, Egwuatu explained that the establishment of the police station was prompted by the need for a police presence at the airport, which would help manage civil matters that could arise on-site.
He noted that the new facility would empower the police to fulfill their responsibilities similar to those at other airports across Nigeria.
Egwuatu highlighted that the police station was built using the airport’s limited Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).
He described the completion of the station as a significant achievement, underscoring their commitment to enhancing the safety and welfare of passengers and the surrounding community.
“The police station represents our dedication to fostering a secure environment where everyone can thrive, building trust and partnerships between law enforcement, the airport community, and the public,” he remarked. The station features modern amenities, including offices for the Divisional Police Officer, interrogation rooms, and holding cells for both males and females.
He also noted that Osubi Airport had functioned without a police station for 25 years, and the airport management, under the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), worked diligently for 11 months to realize this goal.
Egwuatu expressed gratitude to FAAN’s Managing Director/Chief Executive, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, for her support, which was instrumental in fulfilling the presidential directive concerning Osubi Airport.
He reminded attendees that the airport was originally established in 1999 to facilitate exploration activities in the petroleum sector through a Public Private Partnership (PPP) model.
In her comments, Mrs. Kuku acknowledged the Minister’s contributions to enhancing the aviation industry and praised the accomplishments of the Osubi Airport management.
The chairman of the Okpe Local Government Area, Mr. Isaiah Esiovwa, also expressed appreciation for the project, while the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, Major-General Felix Mujakperuo (retd), thanked the management for their transformative efforts at the airport, which he noted has greatly benefited the residents of Delta State.
