Anambra's Second Airport Proposal Faces Economic Scrutiny

The proposal for a second airport in Anambra by Governor Charles Soludo has sparked debate regarding its necessity, given the proximity of existing airports in Enugu, Owerri, and Asaba. The current Chinua Achebe Airport, located 29 km from Onitsha, 33 km from Awka, and 31 km from Nnewi, commenced operations in December 2021 and has recorded 400,000 passengers and 7,000 flights by November 2024.

Critics argue that the existing airport's performance does not justify the construction of a new facility. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) estimates that aviation contributes $2.5 billion to Nigeria's GDP in 2023, supporting 217,000 jobs.

The proposed second airport is intended to link an industrial park, but its success hinges on broader industrial strategies and integration with local manufacturing. Concerns about the economic viability of the new airport persist, especially in light of Nigeria's limited resources and the need for a cohesive aviation logistics system.