Author: Gist Correspondent

…Aviation Minister Keyamo Welcomes Rivers Governor to APC

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, on Friday, December 12, 2025, launched a major road infrastructure project designed to curb community blockades that have repeatedly disrupted operations at the Port Harcourt International Airport.

The Governor flagged off the construction of a 7.1km Airport–Ipo–Ikwerre Road Bypass, while also commissioning the newly completed 12.2km Ikwerre Road–Igwuruta–Airport Road in Ipo. The ceremony was performed by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Chief Festus Keyamo, underscoring renewed federal–state collaboration on strategic infrastructure.

Governor Fubara said the bypass project is a direct response to persistent protests—particularly from Ipo community residents—whose demonstrations, including a major airport blockade last year, created national embarrassment.

“About a year ago, this respected community protested and blocked the airport entrance. It was embarrassing, and the impression was that government wasn’t doing anything,” Fubara recalled.

He noted that sustained dialogue with the community led to the provision of a functional health centre and electricity, adding that the new road will permanently ease the tension between the community and airport operations.

“As soon as this road is completed, you will no longer need the old airport road,” he told residents. “The old road will be tolled. If you have no business at the airport, the bypass is your route.”

The governor described the project as a peace-building investment that will boost commerce and improve security. He commended the Aviation Ministry and airport authorities for pushing for quick commencement, noting their shared concern over operational disruptions.

Fubara directed the construction firm to deliver the project within eight months.

The governor also confirmed that he had received the APC membership Form 001, pledging to mobilise Rivers people for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election. He expressed gratitude to the President for development efforts across the South-South.

Aviation Minister Keyamo, while flagging off the construction, said the intervention was timely and crucial for the aviation sector. He apologised to host communities for past neglect, acknowledging numerous letters of protest received by the ministry. Keyamo also formally welcomed Governor Fubara into the All Progressives Congress.

Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works, Dr. Austin Ezekiel-Hart, explained that the completed 12.2km stretch forms the second phase of the Airport–Igwuruta dual carriage project. He added that the new 7.1km bypass will feature a 10.3m width, 1.5m concrete shoulders, solar-powered streetlights, and a modern tolling system.

Chairman of Ikwerre LGA, Hon. Wobodo Charles, praised the governor’s development drive, saying the bypass will open Ipo community directly to Ikwerre Road, shorten travel time, and stimulate new economic activity along the corridor.