By Romanus Udekwe Okue-Agbomma
Anambra State has taken a strategic step toward establishing itself as a competitive aviation destination in Nigeria’s Southeast with the commissioning of a Protocol Lounge at Chinua Achebe International Airport, Umueri.
Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, who commissioned the facility, disclosed that the upgrade represents the initial phase of a comprehensive infrastructure modernization plan designed to position the airport for expanded regional and international operations.
The development comes as states across Nigeria intensify competition for air traffic and investment, with aviation infrastructure increasingly viewed as critical to economic competitiveness.
“By upgrading our airport infrastructure and delivering a world-class Protocol Lounge, we are not only improving passenger experience but also signaling to investors that Anambra is open for business,” Governor Soludo stated at the commissioning ceremony. “This is about jobs, growth, and sustainable development for our people.”
The Protocol Lounge provides dedicated facilities for visiting dignitaries, government officials, and high-profile travelers, including separate check-in points, executive seating areas, and enhanced security protocols. Such facilities are typically essential for airports seeking to attract business travel and diplomatic missions.
State Commissioner for Transportation, Barr. Patricia Igwebuike, indicated that the upgraded facilities are expected to stimulate commercial activity, tourism, and foreign direct investment in Umueri and surrounding areas.
Governor Soludo emphasized that the state government is pursuing partnerships with federal aviation authorities and international aviation organizations to ensure compliance with global operational standards—a prerequisite for attracting international carriers and expanding flight routes.
The multi-phased modernization plan aims to enhance passenger processing capacity, improve operational efficiency, and create employment opportunities in aviation-related services.
Chinua Achebe International Airport, commissioned in recent years, has been central to Anambra’s economic development strategy. The state government views enhanced aviation connectivity as essential to unlocking the commercial potential of the Southeast region, which has historically been underserved by air transport infrastructure.
The commissioning signals Anambra’s intention to compete with established airports in Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt for a larger share of Nigeria’s domestic and international air traffic.
