The Abia State Government has commenced the final phase of compensation payment to landowners and farmers in six Nsulu communities affected by the acquisition of land for the proposed Abia Airport .
In a press statement issued on Monday, the Commissioner for Lands, Hon. Chaka I. Chukwumerije, confirmed that the government, acting on behalf of the Federal Government and in accordance with the Land Use Act of 1978, acquired 1,025 hectares of land in Nsulu, Isiala Ngwa North LGA, for the “over-riding public purpose” of developing the airport .
The affected communities are Umuala, Umuomainta, Umuezeukwu, Umuode, Umuosu, and Ubaha .
According to the Commissioner, full compensation has already been paid to all landowners and farmers within the airport runway area, enabling project work to proceed. Payment to remaining claimants outside the runway area began on February 23, 2026 .
To ensure transparency and accountability, the government published and shared the compensation list and claims survey with communities in December 2025 for vetting, pausing payments until the review process was completed. Specific concerns raised during a reconciliation meeting with community representatives—led by Rt. Hon. Uzo Azubuike—were reviewed, with disputed claims undergoing investigation before any payment may be made .
A general town hall meeting was held on February 18, 2026, to brief the communities and announce the final payment phase, during which the government’s commitment to a transparent, fair, and corruption-free process was reiterated .
“Any proven reported sharp practice will be dealt with in strict accordance with the law,” Chukwumerije warned .
Claimants are advised to visit the Ministry of Lands for due documentation and full payment of their compensation based on the released payment schedule .
