The Benue State Government has announced plans to build a new airport with three wings — International, Domestic, and Cargo — along with an Export/Import Processing Zone.
Governor Hyacinth Alia said the project, which will be located along the Makurdi–Gboko road, is aimed at reducing the challenges faced by the people of the state.
Commissioner for Lands and Survey, Rev. Frederick Ikyaan, disclosed this on Friday, September 26, 2025, during a meeting with traditional rulers from Guma, Gboko, Gwer East, and Tarka Local Government Areas.
According to him, the airport will be sited on the left side of the Makurdi road, immediately after Agasha junction, while the Processing Zone will be on the right side. The project will require about 100 hectares of land.
He explained that the Governor wants work on the project to begin immediately but thought it important to consult traditional rulers before moving forward.
The Commissioner added that the land survey has already been completed and stressed the need for proper planning to make development easier.
In their response, the traditional rulers — Ter Gwer, Dominic Akpe, and Ter Gboko, Gabriel Shosom — described the project as a welcome development. They said it would not only bring progress but also help address security concerns, including herdsmen invasions.
The rulers thanked Governor Alia for initiating the project and requested adequate compensation for members of the affected communities.
They also commended the Commissioner for carrying them along in the process and agreed to provide community representatives to follow up on developments.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Lands and Survey, Matthias Antor, thanked the traditional rulers for their cooperation. He urged them to enlighten their people, stressing that any communication from the community must be endorsed by the chiefs to be valid.
The meeting was attended by senior government officials, including the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Eunice Ihu; the Director General of the Benue Geographic Information System (BENGIS), Professor Daniel Amine; and other directors of the ministry.
