Former Minister Urges FG to Utilize Akwa Ibom’s Near-Complete MRO Facility

In light of recent announcements by the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development regarding plans to establish a new Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility at an undisclosed location, former Minister of Lands and Housing, Chief Nduese Essien, has called for a reconsideration of this decision.

Essien advocates for leveraging the nearly completed MRO facility at Akwa Ibom’s Obong Atta International Airport, which has reportedly reached 95% completion after over 15 years of development.

“It’s surprising and inconsistent for the government to propose a new MRO facility through a public-private partnership while disregarding the nearly finished one in Akwa Ibom,” Chief Essien stated. He urged the Minister of Aviation to consider the Akwa Ibom MRO as a viable alternative that could meet Nigeria’s immediate aviation needs, given the advanced status of the Uyo facility.

In November 2023, Aviation Minister Chief Festus Keyamo visited Akwa Ibom, where he toured the airport’s terminal, MRO facility, and the 3.6 km taxiway. Praising Akwa Ibom’s aviation infrastructure, Keyamo referred to the state as “Nigeria’s best-kept secret” and expressed interest in federal collaboration with the state’s aviation projects.

Reflecting on the minister’s past comments, Essien noted the contradiction in now proposing a new facility elsewhere. “The MRO in Akwa Ibom has been meticulously developed and could save the federal government considerable time and resources,” he said.

Essien highlighted the challenges Akwa Ibom State has faced in obtaining federal support for its aviation infrastructure, despite the state’s willingness to work collaboratively across party lines. He pointed to Governor Umo Eno’s commitment to cross-partisan cooperation, noting that viable projects from Akwa Ibom are often sidelined just as they near completion and readiness for impact.

Given Nigeria’s current economic challenges, Chief Essien urged federal officials to prioritize cost-effective, collaborative solutions. “With the financial pressures Nigeria faces, every government organ should collaborate to bring Nigeria forward. Utilizing Akwa Ibom’s near-complete MRO facility would exemplify efficient and unified governance,” he concluded.