FG To Re-Model PH Int Airport

L-R: Governor of Cross River State, Senator Liyel Imoke, Bauchi State Governor, Malam Isa Yuguda, Minister of Education, Professor Ruquayyatu Rufa'i and Edo State Governor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, during the 2011 World Teachers Day celebration and Excellence Award, in Abuja, yesterday.

The Port Harcourt International Airport is to be remodelled in line with modern aviation standards obtainable around the world.

The Deputy General Manager, Public Affairs, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mr Victor Arisa made the announcement in an interview with newsmen in Port Harcourt, yesterday.

He said that already, the company handling the project had begun to move to site.

Arisa explained that the renovation would include modifying the terminal building to meet the operational needs of the airport.

“Essentially, we understand, though, the full details have not been given to us, it includes remodelling and changing the face of the terminal building.

“As you know, the present terminal building is quite inadequate. The airport was constructed over 30 years ago. There has been no major maintenance of the terminal building.

“What you have seen in the past was the rehabilitation of the runway and now the apron is being expanded and in terms of power upgrade.

The Deputy General Manager said the Minister of Aviation, Princess Adaeze Oduah, was committed to remodelling major airports in the country.

He added that work had begun at other airports in Lagos, Abuja and Kano.

“The company handling the Port Harcourt airport project has brought in some of the equipment to be used for the remodelling work.

“The aviation minister is so passionate about giving our airports a face-lift, hence, the company is on site ready to commence work,’’ he said.

Arisa said that when completed, the airport in Port Harcourt, would be much busier as it would serve more passengers.

He said that the airport offered two international flights weekly and several daily local flights to various parts of the country.